Ontological models for construction scheduling and resource planning

Effective scheduling and resource allocation are crucial elements for the success of construction projects. In recent decades, the adoption of ontological models has become a prevalent approach to capturing and structuring knowledge in this domain. This book chapter provides an in-depth review of recent research on creating, integrating, and applying ontological models for scheduling and resource planning. The chapter discusses recent developments and challenges of three main functions of ontology application in construction scheduling and resource planning. The literature review shows various benefits of using ontological models for construction projects. Despite the advantages, the chapter acknowledges the challenges of developing general, consistent, and maintainable ontological models and ensuring existing models' usability, scalability, and compatibility with conventional planning systems. Following the review, a case study has been presented. This case study introduces the dynamic scheduling of crane operations, offering a novel approach to harness the full potential of ontological models while navigating the distinct challenges inherent. This book chapter provides a comprehensive overview of ontological models in the domain of time and resource management for construction projects and offers valuable insights to researchers and practitioners interested in optimising project outcomes through the utilisation of explicit or tacit knowledge and relevant data.