Simultaneous multi-criteria optimization for scheduling linear infrastructure projects

Abstract

This paper presents a simultaneous multi-criteria optimization approach for scheduling linear infrastructure projects. The proposed model provides planners with sets of non-dominated alternatives and their corresponding tradeoffs. The associated research methodology includes: (1) developing a resource driven scheduling module; (2) applying a multi-criteria optimization technique to optimize the multi-objective scheduling problem; (3) integrating the proposed model with a commercial project management software; and (4) applying the developed model on two literature-drawn case studies. The developed multi-criteria optimization approach utilizes Genetic Algorithms and Pareto Front sorting. The resulting sets of schedules are based on the multiple inter-conflicting objectives of simultaneously minimizing project duration, minimizing cost, minimizing interruptions, and minimizing unit delivery delays. The results indicate that the proposed approach can explore a greater range of solutions compared to existing models. The developed multi-criteria optimization approach can aid planners with proposing optimal set of schedules.

Keywords:

• Construction
• schedules
• repetitive
• decision analysis
• multi-criteria optimization

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank the esteemed anonymous reviewers for their invaluable remarks and comments that enhanced the paper.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.