Adaption of Structured Analysis Design Techniques methodology for construction project planning

The construction industry has been heavily criticised by researchers and governmental
organisations for its performance especially excessive delay. Ballard and Howell
(2003) indicated that only about 50% of the tasks on weekly work plans are
completed by the end of the plan week. This is a result of a lack of either effective
project planning or effective production control. It therefore seems the traditional
approach of planning is insufficient to meet the current demand and complexity of
construction projects. This paper proposes to critically evaluate the adaptation of
Structured Analysis Design Techniques (SADT) methodology as a tool for project
planning. SADT which was further developed into IDEF (Integrated Definition)
techniques claims to be a complete methodology to provide the means of
understanding complex production systems and aid the implementation of change.
The use of this methodology has led to process improvement. The research uses a
literature review followed by interviews with academics and practitioners to
investigate their knowledge and understanding of SADT (IDEF0). The results of the
interviews indicated that SADT (IDEF0) methodology is seldom known and used in
the construction industry. However, this study indicates that SADT methodology
appears to be an effective project planning tool. This study contributes to the limited
project planning techniques in construction industry by exploring the possible
adaption of SADT.