Even with thorough preparation during the construction planning phase—including setting up temporary on-site facilities, planning vehicle routes, and organizing mechanical equipment locations—unexpected issues can still arise once construction begins. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly identify any problems during project execution and implement corrective actions quickly to ensure the project stays on schedule.
Traditional methods of progress control include tools such as bar charts and the critical path method. These approaches generally involve comparing the planned schedule against actual on-site construction progress. Relevant teams analyze the data to identify deviations and promptly implement technical, economic, or organizational measures to correct them. Additionally, adjustments to the schedule may be necessary depending on the project’s evolving circumstances.
However, traditional progress control relies heavily on paper document transmission, which can lead to information loss and delays. The introduction of BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology has revolutionized schedule control by enhancing accuracy and efficiency. While BIM-based methods still involve comparing planned schedules to actual progress, they offer more advanced and integrated approaches. The three primary BIM-based progress control methods include:
(1) Laser Scanning Technology: Construction teams use laser scanning devices to capture the real-time status of control points on-site. This data is uploaded to a platform where quantities are calculated and compared against the BIM model and schedule plan. Stakeholders such as the project owner, management, and supervisors can then verify progress, minimizing reliance on paper documents and improving correction efficiency.
(2) Portable Devices (e.g., iPads): Field personnel use portable devices like iPads to provide immediate feedback on actual progress directly to the BIM platform. The platform reconstructs a real-world model, which is then compared to the planned model to detect any discrepancies.
(3) Augmented Reality Technology: Through augmented reality, specialized operators can visually compare actual progress against the schedule plan on-site. Any deviations are recorded and uploaded to the platform for analysis, enabling targeted corrective actions by specialists.
(4) Support from a Dedicated BIM Team: Implementing BIM-based progress control effectively requires a well-organized BIM team. From the project’s outset, it is essential to establish a comprehensive BIM team consisting of professionals from the owner, design, construction, supervision, and consulting units. This team, centered around the BIM platform, facilitates the transition from traditional organizational methods to a collaborative, information-sharing environment.
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