Modeling the Impact of Automated Materials Locating and Tracking Technology on the Construction Supply Network

Abstract

Ineffective materials and equipment management continues to be a leading cause of poor performance on construction projects today. Many of the problems arise as a result of the inability to convey information pertaining to the location and status of construction material and equipment in an accurate and efficient manner. The integration of automated materials locating and tracking technologies (AMLTT) within the construction supply network presents a viable solution to this problem. The objective of this thesis is to further the understanding of the broader impact which these technologies could have on construction supply network management and the construction management process in general. This knowledge, however limited, is increasingly important as leaders in other industry sectors are beginning to report tangible benefits as a result of the integration of these technologies within their organizations’ supply networks. Using a modeling and simulation approach, the impact of AMLTT on three segments of the construction supply network, typical to most large scale and industrial construction projects, was investigated. The results indicate the potential for AMLTT to have a positive impact on resource allocation, productivity, risk mitigation, and improving the overall performance of the construction supply network in general.