An Optimization Model for Linear Project Scheduling Considering Multi-Skilled Crews

Owing to the characteristics of construction linear projects, work efficiency is always addressed by prior researchers. However, most studies only consider single-skilled crews for linear projects, and the flexibility of multiskilling in construction is neglected. Recently, researchers have reveals that multiskilling in construction can increase the productivity, flexibility, and continuity of work, this study therefore proposed a duration optimization mode while introducing the concept of multiskilling to integrate single/multiple skilled crews to improve work performance. Moreover, to enhance the efficiency of problem solving, constraint programming (CP) is employed to handling the complicated combinatorial scheduling problem, and several heuristic rules are engaged. The CP-based optimization is proceeded to minimize project duration, while two crew types, including single-skilled and multi-skilled crews, are integrated in the proposed model. Furthermore, a bridge example is used, and a scenario is conducted and analyzed to illustrate the proposed model for handling linear scheduling problems. Consequently, multiskilling in construction for optimizing project duration and improving work efficiency is demonstrated.