A Multi-objective Dynamic Optimization Approach to Project Schedule Management: A Case Study of a Gas Field Construction

In today’s changing conditions, the random disturbances have caused complexity into the construction project management. In this study, a multi-objective approach is proposed to determine the size of the time buffers in engineering and construction projects. The problem is formulated as a two-stage stochastic programming model. In order to examine the efficiency of the model, the proposed method was compared to the classic and extended critical chain management approaches. The validation is performed using simulation experiments carried out in the benchmark data test and a real case of an engineering project. The numerical examples and case studies were presented to validate the proposed methodology. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed multi-objective time buffering method in the actual situation. The outcomes indicate that the proposed robust buffer sizing method results in a more stable plan, as against the traditional methods. © 2022, Korean Society of Civil Engineers.