A Bayesian approach for forecasting errors of budget cost estimates

Accurate estimation of budget costs is critical for effective management of construction projects. The performance of various management functions is dependent on the accuracy of the estimates throughout the construction phase. These estimates, however, inevitably involve a considerable amount of e...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Seokyon Hwang
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Vilnius Gediminas Technical University 2016-03-01
Series:Journal of Civil Engineering and Management
Subjects:
Online Access:http://journals.vgtu.lt/index.php/JCEM/article/view/1288
Description
Summary:Accurate estimation of budget costs is critical for effective management of construction projects. The performance of various management functions is dependent on the accuracy of the estimates throughout the construction phase. These estimates, however, inevitably involve a considerable amount of error, which imperatively requires the evaluation of budget cost estimates and the measurement of errors associated with the estimates. Applying an analytical procedure, this study carried out a thorough statistical analysis of existing practice in the construction industry to identify limitations of the practice. As an alternative to the practice, a Bayesian approach was found to be more appropriate than the industry common practice to account for the probabilistic nature of estimates and to forecast errors associated with the budget estimates. A scenario-based example is included to demonstrate application of the analytical procedure for analysing historical cost performance data that are readily available in most construction companies. First published online: 27 Aug 2015
ISSN:1392-3730
1822-3605