A workflow model for systems and interior finishing works in building construction

Modelling the flow of systems and interior finishing works in building construction has been hampered by the inability of traditional critical path modelling to reflect features of these works such as uncertainty, instability, non-linear and interrupted value-adding processes and re-entrant flow. Drawing on empirical data collected in a work study of a large residential project, a novel workflow model is proposed that explicitly models the flows of products and crews at a fine-grained level. The overall model includes a trade workflow model with a module for each work-package type, and a project level model in which multiple trade modules are embedded. The model was tested through implementation of a simulation of a prototypical construction project involving seven work-packages performed in a 20-storey residential tower with 120 customized apartments. The modelled flows of crews through the test building reflected the same behavioural features observed in construction projects. The model enables evaluation of the impact of management policies on production flow at different levels of detail. It is useful as a research tool and for future development of construction management software.