Using global positioning system to improve materials-locating processes on industrial projects

On-site materials-handling operations are error prone and the errors that occur significantly decrease construction productivity. New technologies and sensing devices can enhance materials-handling management practices on construction job sites. This paper describes a study that aimed to determine the potential benefits of the deployment of global positioning system (GPS) technology within the materials-locating processes on industrial projects. Its main goals were (1) to evaluate the technical feasibility and (2) to quantify the direct benefits in terms of process duration derived from the integration of GPS devices within pipe-locating processes. A field trial was conducted and its results indicated significant time savings. This study also analyzed additional potential benefits derived from the use of GPS in this scenario.