Unified heuristic optimization (UHO) for scheduling repetitive and nonrepetitive construction and renewal projects

Purpose Traditional Critical Path Method (CPM) based heuristics are insufficient for managing resource overallocation and meeting deadlines in repetitive projects such as highways and multi-bridge repairs. Despite their inefficiencies, they are still being used due to the lack of simple heuristic scheduling tools that help project managers and stakeholders cater to these projects' needs, such as crew continuity. The study aims to fill this gap and develop a unified framework that extends CPM heuristics to optimize scheduling for both repetitive and nonrepetitive projects. Design/methodology/approach A unified heuristic optimization (UHO) framework was developed, integrating CPM-based cost-resource allocation and time-cost trade-off procedures with the first-come-first-served repetitive scheduling methodology. An Excel-based automated scheduling tool based on the proposed framework was developed as a proof of concept and tested against cases from the literature. Findings This article presented a novel scheduling framework that generalizes CPM procedures to be applicable for repetitive projects, resolving any deadline or resource allocation constraints. Applied to a literature case study, the produced schedule achieved the same overall project deadline while having more efficient resource utilization. Originality/value This study introduces a unified heuristic approach that simplifies and enhances scheduling for repetitive infrastructure projects. By bridging the gap between CPM-based tools and the unique demands of repetitive scheduling, it supports project managers in managing the schedule and resources of large-scale repetitive projects.