Knowledge management for planning construction projects using dependency structure matrix

Conventional tools like CPM/PERT can plan the workflow sequences for a project. In order to meet the growing demand for completing the projects quickly, one has to manage the information flow. Dependency Structure Matrix (DSM) is a powerful tool for modelling information flow and planning alternate sequences. An implementation procedure for modelling construction projects using DSM has been elaborated. It includes major phases such as formation of activity DSM, partitioning (re-sequencing the order of execution of activities for a feasible sequence), tearing (choosing a set of dependency relationships for temporary removal by making assumptions), estimation of project duration and rework duration. Effective and efficient planning using DSM requires inputs from domain experts at various phases. A major portion of this is mainly derived from historical information or the personal experience of the experts. This historic information may reside in documents, heads of people, drawings, etc. There is a need to formalise systems that can capture and disseminate the critical information from construction projects for reuse within and across projects. Knowledge Management (KM) can play a major role in meeting this requirement.