Effective Crew Allocation Using Discrete-Event Simulation: Building Scaffolding Case Study in Thailand

Abstract

A paradigm was developed to illustrate the performance and capabilities of discrete-event simulation (DES) in dealing with the complexity and uncertainty of construction processes. EZStrobe (a promising DES tool) was utilized due to its simplicity and the moderate effort required. A case study investigated the scaffolding installation process for a high-rise building project in Thailand. The activity cycle diagrams (ACDs) were constructed accordingly to represent the complex construction processes and associated activities of the case study. Data analyses were performed to propose an effective strategy that contributed substantially to productivity improvement. The results showed that for five workers, the ratio of installers to delivery workers to lower-level workers of 1:1:3 produced the lowest total idle time. Nevertheless, doubling the numbers of workers produced the shortest total construction duration but with higher idle time and construction labor cost. The crew fleet was effectively allocated depending on two main attributes: (1) proportion between installers and delivery workers; and (2) number of lower-level workers. The findings from this study can further direct project planners to achieve proficient onsite resource arrangements, especially under time and cost constraints.