Line‐of‐Balance Scheduling in Pavement Construction

TLDR

Linear Scheduling Methods are well suited to repetitive projects but are rarely used in construction; Line‑of‑Balance is a Linear Scheduling Method that incorporates network technology. The study investigates the benefits and shortcomings of Line‑of‑Balance in a highway surface treatment project. The authors applied Line‑of‑Balance experimentally to the project, leveraging its network‑based scheduling features. Line‑of‑Balance proved highly sensitive to errors in man‑hour, crew size, and activity duration estimates, exhibited visual diagram issues, yet provided a better grasp of the project, smoother resource flow, and required less time and effort than network schedules. The authors recommend further research to enhance the attractiveness of Linear Scheduling Methods.

Abstract

Linear Scheduling Methods are best suited to projects that display repetitive characteristics, but their use in the construction industry is limited. Line‐of‐Balance (LOB) is a Linear Scheduling Method that also makes use of network technology. Its benefits and shortcomings are investigated in a high‐way surface treatment project where LOB has been used experimentally. It was determined that LOB is extremely sensitive to errors in man hour, crew size, and activity duration estimates. There are also problems of a visual nature with the presentation of the diagram. On the other hand, LOB allows a better grasp of the project than any other scheduling technique because it is possible to adjust activities' rates of production. It provides a smooth and efficient flow of resources and requires less time and effort to produce than network schedules. Research to make Linear Scheduling Methods more attractive is recommended.