The Impact of the Learning and Forgetting Effect on the Cost of a Multi-Unit Construction Project with the Use of the Simulated Annealing Algorithm

Abstract

Construction projects are often delayed. Their budgets are being exceeded. This is partly because construction project models rarely take human factors into account. The article focuses on the repetitive multi-unit projects that are often found in construction practices. They are an excellent example of construction works for which the optimization of certain processes can bring measurable financial benefits. In particular, the focus was on improving the key investment success indicator, the total cost of a project. This article presents the use of learning and forgetting phenomenon to improve construction schedules. The authors proposed an innovative model of the construction phase and optimized the schedule using a proprietary calculation algorithm using the simulated annealing phenomenon. The method was verified by a series of experiments and showcased by a case study. The results show that the presented methods can improve the construction planning process and better reflect the current construction conditions. The findings may impact residential, infrastructure, industrial, and commercial construction branches.