TASK-TECHNOLOGY FIT IN THE ADOPTION OF LINEAR SCHEDULING METHOD

Abstract

Although the general consensus is that linear scheduling methods (LSMs) are quite powerful, their use in construction has been very limited. The linkage between the characteristics of scheduling methods and the requirements of the tasks performed by schedulers has been an on-going concern in the construction industry. This study proposes a “task-technology fit” model to understand why LSMs are not being used as extensively as expected. The model aims to determine whether the characteristics of LSM (technology) satisfy the duties and obligations of construction schedulers (tasks). By scrutinizing the task-technology fit in LSM applications, deficiencies can be detected which hinder the wider use of these methods in the industry. A questionnaire survey was administered to measure task-technology fit in LSM applications. The target population included schedulers, project managers, construction managers, and other professionals listed in the directory of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). The findings indicate that LSM is effective in repetitive projects and is able to provide a smooth and efficient flow of resources by adjusting activities’ rate of production. In addition, research findings point out that LSM effectively shows activity sequences as well as progress. However, the findings also reveal that LSM is not applicable when reliable resource data are not available. It should also be noted that very few software packages that perform LSM scheduling are commercially available on the market.