Description of a dynamic simulation model for the control of the complex ecosystem of an infrastructural project

Abstract

This article describes the dynamic simulation model of the construction works of a large industrial infrastructure (Power Plant). The construction activity is a dynamic activity as the complete realization of the infrastructure is achieved through intermediate states of assembly of partial structures, which evolve over time until reaching the final planned configuration. The on-site workforce that performs the construction represent the system, that is, by definition, a set of agents that operate in a coordinated manner according to a predefined project and program. The objective of the system is to complete the work within the given total time while remaining within the planned cost. The result of the construction activity is considered as the emerging structure of the resource system used for that purpose.

The construction activity is analyzed with a systemic approach to highlight the causal relationships between the main variables involved in and, consequently, identify the key parameters of the process. Among the key parameters are included: the time constants of mobilization and demobilization of workforce, their physical productivity of assembling the various substructures, the structural growth factor that characterizes the topology of the elementary substructures.

The proposed model is based on the qualitative causal loop analysis, necessarily simplified to highlight the underlying principle, followed by a Stock & Flow quantitative methodology. It starts from a real project whose data relating to the employed resources and their performance in the field (patterns) were analyzed a posteriori. The model allows Project Managers to perform "what-if" analyzes for initial and intermediate states of progress of the works, taking into account the main parameters affecting the process in order to achieve the objective in a controlled manner.

The methodology is completely general and therefore can be applied to any type of structure.