Construction Management

Diploma In Civil Engineering

Er. Upendra luitel

Instructor, BSET

1
Unit 3: PROJECT PLANNING AND
SCHEDULING
Topics include
3.1 Definition and Characteristics of Project
3.2 Definition and Steps of Planning
3.3 Importance of Planning
3.4 Construction Site Planning
3.5 Work Breakdown Structure
3.6 Bar Chart with advantages and disadvantages, Linked
Bar Chart, and Milestone Bar Chart
3.7 Definition of Scheduling, Preparation of Construction
Schedule and its advantages
3.8 Preparation of Schedule of Resources
(Material/Labor/Equipment and Finance)
 3.1 Definition of Project
A project is a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result.
It is temporary in that it has a defined beginning and end in time, and therefore a defined
scope and resources. A project is also unique in that it is not a routine operation, but a
specific set of operations designed to accomplish a singular goal. Projects are often
constrained by factors such as time, budget, and resources, and are typically undertaken to
meet specific objectives within these constraints.
Characteristics of Project
1.Temporary: Projects have a definite beginning and end. Once the project's objectives are
met, it is completed or terminated.
2.Unique: Projects are unique endeavors that produce a specific output, such as a product,
service, or result. They are not routine operations but are designed to achieve a particular
goal.
3.Purpose: Projects are undertaken to deliver a specific outcome or benefit. They are driven
by defined objectives and are aligned with the organization's strategic goals.
4.Cross-functional: Projects often involve team members from different functional areas
within an organization. They require collaboration and coordination among team members
with diverse skills and expertise.
5.Constraints: Projects are often constrained by factors such as time, cost, scope, and
quality. Project managers must manage these constraints to ensure the project's success.
Contd..Characteristics of Project
6. Risk: Projects involve uncertainty and risk. Project managers must identify, assess, and
manage risks throughout the project lifecycle.
7. Progressive Elaboration: Projects evolve over time as more information becomes
available and the project scope is further defined. Project plans and deliverables are
elaborated as the project progresses.
8. Interdependent Tasks: Projects consist of interdependent tasks and activities. The
completion of one task often depends on the successful completion of others.
9.Resource Allocation: Projects require the allocation of resources, including people,
money, and materials, to achieve their objectives.
10.Stakeholder Involvement: Projects involve stakeholders who have an interest in the
project or are affected by its outcome. Effective communication and stakeholder
engagement are essential for project success.

Understanding these characteristics is essential for effectively managing projects and

achieving their objectives.
Steps of planning:
⚫Planning is systematic process of doing things. The
steps are involved in planning are as follows:
❖ Analyzing the environment

❖ Establishment of objectives

❖ Identify the key factors of the project

❖ Identification of key elements of activities

❖ Establishing the logical sequencing and activities

❖ Identification of time and resources

✓ Assignment of responsibilities
✓ Finalize project plan
Stages of planning:
Preplanning
• Setting out objectives
• Cost benefit analysis
• Project go / no-go decision
Detailed planning
• Detailed design and drawings
• Specifications
• Quantities calculation
• WBS is done
• Sequence and scheduling of the activities are done
Monitoring and controlling
▪ In this phase, the progress of construction is monitored as per proposed scheduled.
• Updating of schedule can be carried out according to the actual progress of work.
• Preparation of the revised forecasts regarding the availability of various resources is done.
Planning by the Client /Owner/Employer
Pre-tender / pre-construction stage planning
• Clients sets clear objectives of the project
• Client communicate the objectives to all the parties and stakeholders
• After proper investigations of the project, client prepares quantity estimates and
determines the quantum of money required for the completion of the work.
• Take respective approval of the project from concerned authority
• Selection of project team and project appraisal
• Select the consultant (if required)
• Bidding and contract award (Selection of Contractor)
Construction stage planning
• Revision in objectives in responding unexpected events
• Make site available for the contractor
• Timely payment and settlement of claims
• Keep the changes less
• Update performance bond/ security of the contractor
• Timely decision
Post construction stage planning
• Prepares project operation schedule
• Prepares project maintenance schedule
• Project ownership
Planning by the Contractor
Pre-tender/ pre-construction stage planning
The planning undertaken by the contractor after receipt of tender notice and before
submitting the bid is known as pre-tender stage planning.
• Careful Study of tender documents and drawings to find out the quantities of
each item of work
• Study of specifications and workout the detailed quality of materials required for
different items
• Determine the availability of construction materials at site or nearby site.
• Determine the method of work execution i.e. by labor or equipment
• Thorough study of site and site investigations
Construction stage planning
• After the acceptance of the tender, the contractor further needs in-depth
planning. This stage of planning is also known as contract planning.
• Studying the alternative methods of construction and to decide about
subcontracting
• Working out detailed quantities of materials required and examine and fixing
the methods of procurement and sources of them
 Planning by the Contractor
Construction stage planning

• Working out details of plants, equipment their layout and repair & maintenance
strategy
• Planning for camp facilities, access, accommodations, site offices and layout
• Planning for surveillance like proper lighting, ventilation, drinking water,
sanitation, first aid treatment
• Study interdependence of different items of works and fixing the sequence of
them
• Finalize the work program of each item of work and to decide the dates of their
starting and completing
Post construction stage planning
• Demobilization of plants and equipment
• Demobilization of labors
• Clearance of materials inventory and its stock
• Handover the project to client in targeted date
• Responsible for the defect liability construction within its period
 3.3 Importance of planning
Planning is crucial for the success of any project, regardless of its size or complexity. Here
are some key reasons why planning is important
1.Clarity of Objectives: Planning helps to define the project's objectives clearly. It outlines
what needs to be achieved, by when, and with what resources.
2.Resource Management: It allows for effective allocation of resources such as time, money,
and manpower. This helps in optimizing resource utilization and avoiding wastage.
3.Risk Management: Planning helps identify potential risks and develop strategies to
mitigate them. This proactive approach minimizes the impact of risks on the project.
4.Time Management: A well-planned project includes a timeline with clear milestones and
deadlines. This helps in tracking progress and ensuring that the project stays on schedule.
5.Cost Management: Planning helps estimate the costs associated with the project and
develop a budget. This allows for better cost control throughout the project lifecycle.
6.Quality Control: Planning includes defining quality standards and processes. This ensures
that the project deliverables meet the expected quality levels.
 3.3 Importance of planning
Planning is crucial for the success of any project, regardless of its size or complexity. Here are
some key reasons why planning is important
7. Communication: Planning involves identifying stakeholders and establishing
communication channels. This ensures that all stakeholders are informed about the project's
progress and any relevant updates.
8.Efficiency: A well-planned project is executed more efficiently as it minimizes uncertainties
and avoids ad-hoc decision-making.
9.Client Satisfaction: Effective planning helps in meeting client expectations by delivering
the project within the agreed-upon time, budget, and quality standards.
10.Learning and Improvement: After the project is completed, the planning process allows
for a review of what went well and what could be improved. This helps in learning from the
project and applying those lessons to future projects.

In conclusion, planning is a critical phase of project management that lays the foundation
for a successful project by defining its scope, objectives, resources, risks, and timeline. It
enables effective management and control throughout the project lifecycle, ultimately
leading to the successful completion of the project.
3.4 Construction site planning

Drawing: Construction site planning

3.4 Construction site planning
⚫A drawing showing the location of purpose construction,
entry, temporary services, materials store etc. is known as
construction site planning (CSP). CSP helps in effective
and efficient execution of construction work.
⚫It is prepared by engineer, supervisor or site incharge. It
helps in minimizing the changes of wastages,
deteriorations and losses and also minimize the chances of
accidents in construction site. Well planned construction
site will have positive impact on construction cost and
safety.
Factors affecting CSP:
❖ Nature and type of work
❖ Site condition and location of the project
❖ Method of execution
❖ Access to the site
❖ Size of the project
❖ Project cost
❖ Topography of land
❖ Specific need
❖ Number of working day
 Importance of CSP:
Efficiency: Proper planning ensures that the construction site is organized and optimized
for efficiency. This includes the layout of equipment, materials, and work areas to
minimize wasted time and resources.
Safety: Planning helps identify potential hazards and risks on the construction site. This
allows for the implementation of safety measures to protect workers, visitors, and the
public.
Cost Control: Proper planning helps in estimating and controlling costs throughout the
construction project. This includes budgeting for materials, labor, equipment, and other
expenses
Quality Control: Site planning includes provisions for quality control measures such as
inspections and tests. This ensures that construction work meets the required quality
standards
Legal Compliance: Site planning ensures that construction activities comply with
relevant laws, regulations, and codes. This helps in avoiding legal issues and penalties.

Logistics: Planning helps in managing the logistics of the construction site, including the
delivery of materials and equipment. This ensures that materials are available when
needed, reducing delays.
Resource Management, Environmental impact & Public Perception
Factors Affecting CSP
• Site topography
• Project requirements & specifications
• Constructions method
• Zoning & legal Compliance
• Enviromental considerations
Element of site layout planning:
• Access to site
• Storage of materials
• Plants
• Temporary facilities & infrastructure
• Communication & co-ordination
• Miscellaneous
3.5 Work break down structure
A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical decomposition of the total scope of
work to be carried out by the project team to accomplish the project objectives and
create the required deliverables. It organizes and defines the total scope of the project

Importance of WBS:
1.Scope Definition: It helps to define and organize the scope of the project, breaking it
down into manageable sections.
2.Clarity: It provides clarity on the project's deliverables and the work required to achieve
them.
3.Organization: It organizes the project into smaller, more manageable components,
making it easier to plan, estimate, and control.
4.Communication: It serves as a communication tool, ensuring that all stakeholders have a
clear understanding of the project's scope and requirements.
5.Time and Cost Estimation: It facilitates more accurate estimation of time and cost by
breaking down the project into smaller, more detailed tasks.
6.Resource Allocation: It helps in identifying the resources required for each task,
enabling better resource allocation and management.
7.Risk Management: It helps in identifying potential risks by breaking down the project
into smaller components, making it easier to assess and manage risks.
WBS facilitates in the following
❖ Monitoring and control
❖ Estimation of resources
❖ Rate/ Cost analysis
❖ Schedule preparation and control
❖ Progress control
Advantages/ use/ objective
✓ Planning can be performed
✓ Cost of budget can be established
✓ Risk analysis can be done
✓ Control and contract administration can be done.
✓ Schedule can be establish
✓ Responsibility matrix can be established
✓ Coordination can be established
3.6 Bar Chart
⚫Henry Gantt introduced bar chart in the year 1900,
which is also called Gantt Chart. It is simple and easily
understood tool used for project planning and
controlling. It is a graphical representation of various
activities, their starting and completion dates and
duration.
⚫On a chart, by means of horizontal bars, different
activities are represented. The length of bar indicates
the duration or time required for the completion of
that activity.
3.6.1 Bar Chart contd…
Important of Bar Chart
⚫Used for project planning and scheduling and controlling
⚫To know project completion time
⚫To know the activities which are to be done in time before start of
another sequential activities.

Advantages of Bar Chart:

It gives following information
✓ Different activities to be performed
✓ Time required for each activity for its completion
✓ Date on which different labors, materials, equipment are needed
✓ Progress of each item
✓ A piece of plan and its comparative progress
Limitations of a Bar Chart
⚫There is a limitation of the size of a bar chart. Therefore
details or sub details of the activities are difficult to show
separately. Hence it is not considered as suitable for large
and complicated projects.
⚫It is not able to show the interrelationship
and interdependencies
among various activities.
⚫It does not shows the critical path, critical activities, float
etc.
⚫For the project having time uncertainties like research
and development project, it is not much useful.
⚫Each activity receives equal important due to lack of
indication in the chart.
3.6.2 Linked Bar Chart and Milestone Bar Chart:
Linked Bar Chart:
❖ A bar chart is modified to overcome some its limitations and a linked
bar chart was developed. It shows the links between an activity and
preceding or succeeding activities. It is to be noted here that linking
bar very complicated, difficult and sometimes impossible to show
graphically.
3.6.3 Mile Stone Bar Chart:
❖ Further improvement was made on the bar chart to
include important events. Milestones are used to indicate
some of the important events. Milestones are represented
by a circle or square within the length of bars or by using
head of an arrow or a flag on the bars.
3.7 Scheduling
⚫The process of fitting the time frame indicating the start an
activities or item is known as scheduling. It helps contr
consultant to manage the time and execute different a
sequence of time.
Or
⚫Scheduling the process of fitting the work plan to a time fr
the start and completion of each activities. It is also
relation among various activities. Scheduling is an impo
construction management.
Advantage of Scheduling
⚫Total time of completion of project is known.
⚫It gives clear picture about the quantity and type of materials needed at
different stages of execution of work and the duration of supply of
materials.
⚫The time of starting of each activity is known and thus prior
arrangement for adequate provision of resources such as men, material
and machine etc. for each stage of construction can be made.
⚫The resource utilization is optimized an the available resources are
directed to various activities to the best advantage.
⚫The inter-relationship of various activities and their relative
importance of each stage of construction s known. This helps in fixing
their priorities properly.
⚫Alternative methods of construction can be examined and the effect of
likely constraints evaluated at the planning stage and the most
economical method is selected.
Construction Schedule:
❖ It gives the clear pictures of construction project and the
time required for completion of each activities.
Equipment Schedule:
❖ It gives the complete list of equipment required for the
execution of different activities.
Material Schedule:
❖ In order to deliver material at site well in advance and to
avoid material delivery at site for in advance ( to avoid
deterioration damages etc. )
Labor Schedule:
❖ It show required types and number of labor at specific
date. It is prepared on the basis of construction schedule.
Financial Schedule:
❖ During construction contractor spends and receives
money. Therefore it is essential to show the status of
expenditure and receipt during construction.