Construction planning models: a review of history, capabilities and limitations

This paper critically reviews the various construction planning models developed by researchers and practitioners since the beginning of this century. The aim is to present an up to date review of construction planning models. The review provides a useful one stop reference for researchers during the early stages of related research, and practitioners wishing to evaluate their systems. The paper also describes current construction planning developments and comments on contractors' opinions regarding these developments. This review is mainly based on current literature relating to different planning systems. In order to illustrate current planning practices within construction management, the review has included some of the results of a questionnaire survey conducted amongst the top 400 contractors in USA and top 100 contractors in UK. The review concludes that there is a wide variety of planning models, used by the Architecture-Engineering-Construction (AEC) industry, which range from simple techniques such as bar charts to sophisticated and complex models such as expert systems, simulation programs, CAD-­based planning applications and integrated planning models.