Construction Scheduling

Course Overview

This Construction Scheduling course provides learners with an overview of the key project scheduling techniques and procedures. Learners will be introduced to bar or Gantt charts and how they are used as scheduling tools. They will also learn how to create activity precedence diagrams, also referred to as activity on node diagrams, which graphically represent the construction activities in a project and their relationships. The course will also cover the types of construction activity relationships encountered in a project and how to represent them in an activity precedence diagram. Forward and backward pass calculations and the importance of critical paths, including what it is and why it is important, will also be discussed. By the end of the course, learners will be able to understand the fundamentals of bar charts, precedence diagrams, activity on arrow, Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), range estimating, linear project operations, and the line of balance (LOB).

[Applications]
The application of this course can be seen in the construction industry, where the knowledge and skills acquired can be used to develop and manage a schedule for a construction project. This includes creating activity precedence diagrams, understanding the types of construction activity relationships, and performing forward and backward pass calculations. Additionally, learners can use the knowledge gained to understand the importance of the critical path in a project network, and define project activities float. Finally, learners can apply the fundamentals of bar charts, precedence diagrams, activity on arrow, Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), range estimating, linear project operations, and the line of balance (LOB).

[Career Paths]
Job Position Paths:
1. Construction Scheduler: Construction Schedulers are responsible for creating and managing project schedules. They use scheduling tools such as bar charts, activity on arrow, and activity on nodes to develop and manage a schedule. They also use network diagrams to define the critical path in a project and to define project activities float. This role is becoming increasingly important as construction projects become more complex and require more detailed scheduling.

2. Project Manager: Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the entire project from start to finish. They must be able to understand and manage the various scheduling tools and techniques used in construction projects. They must also be able to identify and manage the critical path in a project and ensure that all activities are completed on time and within budget.

3. Construction Planner: Construction Planners are responsible for creating and managing project plans. They must be able to understand and use scheduling tools such as bar charts, activity on arrow, and activity on nodes to develop and manage a schedule. They must also be able to identify and manage the critical path in a project and ensure that all activities are completed on time and within budget.

Developing Trends:
1. Automation: Automation is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Automation tools are being used to streamline the scheduling process and reduce the amount of time and effort required to create and manage a schedule.

2. Data Analysis: Data analysis is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Data analysis tools are being used to identify trends and patterns in construction projects and to help project managers make better decisions.

3. Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. AI tools are being used to automate the scheduling process and to identify potential problems and risks in construction projects.

[Education Paths]
Recommended Degree Paths:
1. Bachelor of Science in Construction Management: This degree program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to manage construction projects from start to finish. Students learn about project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. They also gain an understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of construction management. This degree is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in construction management.

2. Master of Science in Construction Engineering and Management: This degree program focuses on the engineering and management aspects of construction projects. Students learn about project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. They also gain an understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of construction engineering and management. This degree is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in construction engineering and management.

3. Master of Science in Project Management: This degree program focuses on the management of projects from start to finish. Students learn about project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. They also gain an understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of project management. This degree is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in project management.

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Construction Management: This degree program provides students with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to manage construction projects from start to finish. Students learn about project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. They also gain an understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of construction management. This degree is ideal for those looking to pursue a career in research or academia.

Developing Trends:
1. Automation: Automation is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Automation technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics are being used to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

2. Sustainability: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Companies are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact and use sustainable materials and processes.

3. Data Analytics: Data analytics is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Companies are using data analytics to gain insights into their projects and make better decisions.