Location-based planning and scheduling is a methodology used by construction project managers to optimize their planning and scheduling processes by taking into account the physical location and space of their projects.
This approach focuses on dividing each project into smaller zones to plan and schedule work in each of those zones more efficiently based on their constraints, characteristics and dependencies.
We will discuss some key differences between location-based planning and other construction scheduling methodologies and three distinct benefits that location can bring to your organization.
The problem with traditional construction scheduling techniques
The key to on-time and on-budget projects is having an accurate and comprehensive schedule, but how can construction managers do this when it's nearly impossible to keep track of every detail, especially during large, multistory projects?
Maybe we need to think about construction planning and scheduling a little differently.
It's not uncommon in the industry to use Gantt charts and similar methods to track work over time; however, this may present some problems with your scheduling processes.
For example, focusing solely on time tracking can cause managers to ignore productivity and lose control over their projects. Not to mention the fact that Gantt charts are not easy for all stakeholders to understand.
The solution to repetitive projects is to plan and schedule productively across time and space: enter location-based planning and scheduling.
3 Benefits of Using a Location-Based Planning and Scheduling System
Location-based planning is a powerful methodology for construction managers – it provides a structured, systemic approach to scheduling that optimizes on-site processes to minimize rework and waste, while ensuring the project remains within budget and of the schedule.
Location-based scheduling offers some important benefits, including making the construction process more predictable and minimizing the impact of constraints, delays, and interruptions that affect project productivity.
Additionally, the Practical Implications of Location-Based Scheduling report analyzed residential construction projects to find three unique benefits of the location-based planning method:
Location-based scheduling gives project managers a clear view of the entire project, allowing them to easily identify and track progress in each zone. This clear view helps them closely monitor every activity on site to identify potential bottlenecks early, before they become a problem.
Localization also allows local managers to schedule with greater precision – estimating resources, costs, labor hours and deadlines is easier when you work in zones. This makes it realistic to develop a workable schedule while considering the unique constraints of each work zone.
2. Better work continuity
Another benefit of location-based scheduling is establishing a better workflow. By providing information about where work is being carried out and which work crews are allocated to each zone, planning ongoing workflows becomes much easier.
This allows project managers to develop a detailed schedule considering the workflow of different zones, enabling a continuous flow of work throughout the entire project.
Location-based scheduling enables workflow continuity in two ways: improved work sequencing and more efficient resource management.
When construction managers view the project in zones, they can more effectively sequence work in each zone, filling schedule gaps to ensure this continuous flow. And when they manage resources by creating schedules around what's currently available, they reduce the risk of delays and downtime.
3. Improved project control
Finally, location-based scheduling helps project managers monitor project progress and identify potential issues before they turn into significant problems. This planning method allows for greater project control in a few different ways.
Location-based planning and scheduling gives project managers more visibility into their projects as a whole and each individual zone. Furthermore, it is always valuable for managers to always know the exact location of each crew.
A fundamental principle of location-based scheduling is that a team should not change locations until its work in a zone is fully completed. Project scheduling benefits from this principle – other planning methods more or less dismiss your activities as time-based rather than specific to a single location.
Localization also improves project control by making it easier for local managers to get real-time updates, allowing them to make decisions based on the latest information. Ultimately, this leads to better decisions that reduce the risk of delays and keep the project on track.
Improve your planning by implementing location-based scheduling in your projects
A Washington State Department of Transportation report on location-based linear programming concluded that it is an effective method of planning in construction – but it also found a challenge: the lack of sophisticated, readily available construction management software that can apply location- based planning principles.
