Strategic Resource Allocation in Construction through Critical Path Analysis and LP Programming

In construction project management, the need to optimize resource allocation while managing cost and schedule is critical for project success. This study examines an integrated approach using the Critical Path Method (CPM) alongside Linear Programming (LP) to improve traditional project scheduling. Although CPM effectively establishes project timelines by identifying the sequence of critical tasks, it often lacks flexibility to account for sudden shifts in project dynamics under unpredictable conditions. Integrating LP enhances the standard CPM approach, allowing for a more flexible and cost-efficient scheduling that adapts to changing conditions and maintains profitability.

The research used a residential construction project as a case study, analyzing a 5,000-square-foot, three-story building to examine both material and labor requirements. By employing a hybrid CPM-LP model, the study effectively identifies critical paths, optimizes resource allocations, and evaluates cost implications across various scenarios. The results highlight the potential of the linear programming (LP) model to significantly minimize costs while ensuring adherence to project timelines.

Findings indicate that the combined approach can reduce project duration and expenses, offering construction managers an adaptable framework to optimize resource allocation. This approach not only promises to enhance current practices but also contributes to the theoretical advancement in construction project management by offering a scalable model for varying project sizes and complexities.