Abstract

In recent years, considerable attention has been directed towards ascertaining the nature of disruptions in construction contracting. In practice, attempts are made to identify the causes of delays, modify the schedule by incorporating revised durations, and determine the impacts associated with the new project time. The analysis itself is usually complex and can be aided by a computerized approach. In this work, the advantages and the shortcomings of the existing delay analysis techniques are highlighted and a new delay analysis technique is developed and tested. A methodology to quantify impact costs related to loss of productivity, is also proposed and discussed. In addition, both the delay analysis technique and the cost calculation methodology are accommodated within a computer integrated system, that is demonstrated and validated using a real case study. The developed system comprises of integrating existing management software tools, including: project management, database/spreadsheet, and an expert system. It is designed to assist practitioners in saving both time and money in the preparations of claims arising from delays.