New concepts for total float distribution in CPM project scheduling

One major reoccurring problem in construction is project delays. A project schedule plays an important role, especially for complex projects in controlling delays. The schedule is provided for project participants early in the project to designate time for each project activity to be performed. Despite the well planned schedule, an exact amount of the float possession for each participant is still ambiguous. Conflicts regarding float entitlements have become major issues. The objective of this dissertation is to develop new concepts for total float distribution to allocate the total float to each project participant. This new approach will assist project managers in reducing conflicts regarding the ownership of total float.;Three aspects of total float distribution are developed in this dissertation. They are (1) the classification of criteria for total float distribution, (2) the process of total float distribution and (3) the computer program of total float distribution. The criteria for total float distribution can be classified as either quantitative or qualitative criteria classifications. Each classification is further divided into criteria. The process of total float distribution is based on assumptions and is presented in a flow chart diagram. Since almost every project schedule is now maintained using a computer scheduling software package, a computer program for total float distribution is developed in this research. The program shows the possibility of the integration between the concepts of float distribution and the scheduling software packages.;Testing of the total float distribution computer program under a single selected criterion is also included in this dissertation. A provision of additional criteria selection for total float distribution in the computer program is recommended for future study. The total float distribution concepts may assist in reducing delay disputes by allocating the total float to all project activities prior to the project start.