Integrated methodology to design and manage work‐in‐process buffers in repetitive building projects

An integrated methodology to design and manage buffers in repetitive building projects using work‐in‐process at conceptual level is proposed. The buffer design framework employs the Multiobjective Analytic Model and Simulation‐Optimisation techniques, applied at strategic and tactical scheduling levels. The buffer management framework uses a statistical model to predict work progress, the Reliable Commitment Model, applied at operational scheduling level. The integrated methodology provides a new buffering approach for scheduling repetitive building projects, which considers: (1) a general production framework covering all the production levels from top to bottom; (2) a general modelling structure suitable to any type of repetitive building project; and (3) a sound theoretical and practical framework describing different production scenarios. The benefits of using this methodology are illustrated through a hypothetical project application.