Construction work cost and duration analysis with the use of agent-based modelling and simulation

Abstract

Assuming a systemic approach, a construction project can be treated as a complex system composed of many different interlinked elements such as construction works, human agents, equipment, materials and the knowledge needed to perform the said work. The system’s structure can be divided into many mutually connected precision levels. This multilevel decomposition of the system facilitates a bottom-up approach in assessing the performance of a planned project, while starting the analysis at its lowest aggregation levels. The basic level distinguishes three typical units and their attributes: persons, knowledge and construction resources. Unit attributes and their dynamic interactions under changing environmental conditions affect the properties and performance of a given construction work and, as a consequence, the properties and performance of the project. The objective of this article is to analyse the attributes and micro-behaviours of units through bottom-up project assessment, allowing the estimation of its parameters such as completion time and cost. We utilised multiagent modelling that allows for performing micro-simulations in complex systems with adaptive components. The analysis was backed by a case study of road renovation work performed under specific conditions on the grounds of a listed heritage site.

Keywords

• system of systems
• meta-network
• multiagent system
• planning a construction project