A Novel Step Toward Repetitive Projects Scheduling Using Geographic Information Systems

Unique scheduling challenges are presented by the construction projects having repetitive activities. The present study deals with the development of a scheduling tool to meet the requirements of projects having repetitive activities. Generally, the schedule of a repetitive construction project is made by using commercially available scheduling tools like Primavera and Microsoft Project. The link between 2D drawings/3D components and repetitive schedule is missing in these scheduling tools. The literature indicates the use of 4D modeling in case of non-repetitive construction projects to establish this link. In 4D modeling, a graphical simulation of the execution sequence is developed by linking 3D components with the schedule of a facility to be developed. 4D modeling tools lack in certain features such as generating/updating schedule, linking 3D components with schedule, and consideration of surroundings into a common platform. Geographic information systems-based environment has been explored in the present study for the development of the tool for repetitive scheduling, linking 3D components with the repetitive schedule, and to develop 4D model of the execution sequence of a repetitive construction project. 3D components developed for 4D modeling were also used for cost estimation. 4D model of the execution sequence and cost estimate together constitutes a 5D system for repetitive construction projects.