Construction logistics in dense urban areas - A qualitative study on the challenges and solutions for construction logistics in dense areas
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Examensarbete för masterexamen
Model builders
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Abstract
Population growth is one of the emerging issues of the world, this growth increases
the demand for constructing new buildings. Likewise, there is also a significant
increased interest in living in urban areas. As a result of these two factors, building in
dense urban areas becomes more difficult and complex, thereby affecting construction
logistics within the projects. In dense urban areas, construction sites face numerous
challenges, such as lack of space, traffic congestion, transportation (off-site issues)
among many others. The difficulties regarding construction logistics within dense
areas has a large negative impact on the stakeholders involved, but it is also the least
managed. Thus, the aim of this thesis is to understand the off-site logistical
challenges, and the corresponding solutions for those challenges, and offer future
perspectives.
In order to achieve the aim of this thesis a qualitative study has been deployed based
on semi-structured interviews with managers responsible for logistics. Prior to the
empirical work, a literature review conducted to frame the theoretical background of
this research. Seven construction projects have been selected to be included in the
empirical data. The projects are all located within the dense parts of Gothenburg and
are all commercial buildings.
The findings indicate that there are commonalities and similarities among the projects,
as well as some project-specific challenges. The most common challenges identified
during the interviews were a lack of on-site space, consideration of nearby
stakeholders, and transportation to the site. According to the interviewees, the most
frequently launched solutions to these challenges were the use of a digital planning
system (DPS). While the literature advocated for three other solutions to help with the
arising challenges, such as construction consolidation centers (CCC), third-party
logistics (TPL), and construction logistics plan (CLP). Nonetheless, empirical data
show that the selection of logistical solutions is influenced by the logistics managers
knowledge and experience, the magnitude of the project, and the location of the
project. The respondents were all advocating for increased use of digital tools to
improve construction logistics, while no further elaboration was provided, all of the
interviewees agreed that additional digital tool implementations are required.
Additionally, intangible factors such as increased communication, collaboration, and
transfer of gained experience from prior projects were also identified as a means to
improve construction logistics.
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Keywords
Construction logistics, densification, off-site, construction consolidation centers, third-party logistics, construction logistics plan, digital planning system