Devising and Implementing Process Models Within Infrastructure Engineering Design

Abstract

A plethora of process models have been developed over the years with the aim to improve the performance of design and construction processes. However, effective adoption of process models is still limited; lack of guidance on which model type would be applicable in the given contexts, and an excessive focus on the design of the process models themselves instead of their implementation may be some of the reasons for this. This research investigates how process models should be used within infrastructure engineering design, considering also how different methods suit different purposes. Findings from an ongoing research project in the UK are presented, following case study as its research strategy. This paper reviews the use of process models and clarifies their relationships by describing the adopted models and comparing them with the models explored in the literature, increasing the understanding of process models within infrastructure engineering design. Benefits, limitations and challenges are also discussed, supporting future applications.