As the coronavirus pandemic swept across the globe and affected the global economy as well as numerous sectors, experts see that there are still some industries facing key issues. There is no doubt that COVID-19 has had a terrific impact on the supply chain, but it’s surprising how there is still an increased pressure on the construction industry to improve overall efficiency and productivity as a response to the aftermath of the global pandemic. In speaking with experts, researchers found that production management is one of the key techniques that consistently stood by the construction industry after the global crisis. Knowing that some challenges still exist, many construction firms and owners are trying to look at production management from just about every angle.

The importance of production management in the construction industry cannot be overstated as it is a core component. When it’s implemented properly, it helps every part of the industry to run more smoothly. Because building projects are often complex and involve certain risks and pitfalls, implementing production management can allow a construction crew to focus on the work that matters and be free from the distractions caused when budgets spin out of control or when tasks go off track. This procedure does not only manage the activities of a construction firm, but also focuses on achieving a smooth production process with efficient planning and control. This is why production management is now a hot topic within the industry.

However, some have looked at it from a different angle. What if there is a visual way to measure the output of management systems and ensure good production? If there is such a way, how do you affirm the approach?

Work Sampling Analysis

Work sampling analysis can be simply referred to as a research technique where employees are observed at random times and their actions are recorded. Also known as activity sampling, this observational technique was created by L.H .C Tippet in 1934. This technique was devised to study work performance by direct observation. Unlike the stopwatch method which is extremely time-consuming (and therefore not feasible), this statistically-based technique measures job skills under standardized and realistic conditions. Since this technique can predict the standard time for a manufacturing task to be conducted, it is also useful in estimating the proportion of idleness or delays occurring in a construction firm. When an individual performs more than one activity, then the time standard for each activity can be easily computed and analyzed with the help of this method. In addition, this method allows you to attribute the cause for delays and idleness.

When it comes to the construction industry, work sampling analysis is said to be the most accurate and reliable process available to gauge labor utilization because this technique is more suitable for analyzing group activities that take longer duration.

With this research method, data collected can help in analyzing construction workers at varying times and locations and coming up with strategies that would increase work efficiency. With this method, you’ll know how workers are spending their time, if they are being productive or not or if they tend to involve more in non-productive work.

Critical Path Method

If there’s an algorithm in project management that can be used to overcome challenges faced by construction industries and improve work efficiency, it’s Critical Path Method (CPM).

Critical Path Method is a term used to describe all the processes, systems and methodologies used to schedule, monitor and manage project activities. This technique is critical for identifying tasks that are necessary for project completion.

Researchers have found that when used in the construction industry, CPM can be a key performance indicator. So, when used correctly, this technique can create a proper balance in the construction industry.