Demystifying the Time-Effort Distribution Curves in Construction Projects: A BIM and non-BIM Comparison

MacLeamy proposed a set of time-effort distribution curves, with a view to mainstreaming the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Numerous researchers and practitioners have cited these curves, but no previous research has ever endeavored to draw actual time-effort distribution curves and analyze them. The aim of this paper is to introduce a novel approach to draw real-life time-effort distribution curves and understand their implications. A data collection form is developed in this paper to record the efforts contributed to a project by various parties. The time-effort distribution curve can be drawn by using both data plotting and mathematical curve fitting. Two public housing projects, one with BIM support while the other without BIM involved, were adopted in this paper for drawing the real-life time-efforts distribution curves. It is found that the time-effort distribution curves in real-life projects are of little similarity to those reported by MacLeamy.

[1]  Brad Hardin,et al.  BIM and Construction Management: Proven Tools, Methods, and Workflows , 2009 .

[2]  Weisheng Lu,et al.  Generic Model for Measuring Benefits of BIM as a Learning Tool in Construction Tasks , 2013 .

[3]  Rafael Sacks,et al.  Impact of three-dimensional parametric modeling of buildings on productivity in structural engineering practice , 2008 .

[4]  Charles M. Eastman,et al.  Building Product Models: Computer Environments, Supporting Design and Construction , 1999 .

[5]  W. Edward Back,et al.  Probabilistic Monitoring of Project Performance Using SS-Curves , 2000 .

[6]  Heng Li,et al.  Building information modeling and changing construction practices , 2011 .

[7]  Li-Chung Chao,et al.  Estimating Project S-Curves Using Polynomial Function and Neural Networks , 2009 .

[8]  Thomas Froese,et al.  PRACTICE NOTE Building information modelling demystified: does it make business sense to adopt BIM? , 2009, ICIT 2008.

[9]  Weisheng Lu,et al.  Rethinking project management and exploring virtual design and construction as a potential solution , 2009 .

[10]  Ghang Lee,et al.  A Target Benchmark of the Impact of Three-Dimensional Parametric Modeling in Precast Construction , 2005 .

[11]  Chih-Han Yu,et al.  Short-Interval Dynamic Forecasting for Actual S -Curve in the Construction Phase , 2011 .

[12]  Dana K. Smith,et al.  Building Information Modeling: A Strategic Implementation Guide for Architects, Engineers, Constructors, and Real Estate Asset Managers , 2009 .

[13]  Kenneth T. Sullivan,et al.  How To Measure the Benefits of BIM - A Case Study Approach , 2012 .

[14]  Chris Harty,et al.  Building Information Modelling as innovation journey: BIM experiences on a major UK healthcare infrastructure project , 2011 .