An ABC approach to modeling the emergence of ‘new tasks’ in weekly construction planning

Abstract

Question: How can we understand the emergence of ‘New’ tasks in weekly work plans and what are the reasons for their emergence? Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present a method to observe the causes, planning behaviors, and consequences associated with the emergence of ‘New’ tasks in weekly work planning. This method was developed by examining four case studies in two different countries and using an Antecedent, Behavior, Consequences (ABC) approach. Research Method: Case study analysis, on-site observations, and process modeling. Findings: An ABC model is developed to explain the “emergence of ‘New’ Tasks phenomenon” and suggest improvements to the planning process. Limitations: The developed ABC model needs to be tested on more projects. Implications: By identifying the planning behaviors associated with the emergence of ‘New’ tasks, dividing behaviors into families, and tracking the possible consequences, last planners become more aware of the nature of these tasks. This can help last planners in employing a more responsive planning approach to address the emerging ‘New’ tasks through an agile constraint removal process to make tasks ready for timely execution. Value for authors: This paper introduces the concept of ‘New’ tasks in weekly construction planning and develops an ABC model to describe the causes of their emergence. © 2016, Lean Construction Institute. All rights reserved.