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Development of an Ontological Cost Estimating Knowledge Framework for EPC Projects

  • Construction Management
  • Published:
KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

This research standardizes a knowledge structure for estimation in the construction field by creating a method to enhance cost management efficiency of construction projects while meeting the need for reusability of accumulated construction information. The construction knowledge structure was developed to execute the project cost estimation with an ontological concept. The knowledge framework was defined and relevant examples were addressed to explain the structure. The detailed estimation process and methodology for using standard unit price information was also developed to strengthen cost information interoperability by utilizing standard classification systems, such as MasterFormat, UniFormat, UniClass, and ISO 12006. This concept may be proposed as a method of connecting construction information based on a standard cost classification system in order to improve estimation efficiency by increasing the connectivity of cost information. Ontology can be a powerful tool when used in conjunction with interoperability to manage the massive volume of construction information for cost management. This methodology can expand to integrated management in cost and time to derive additional classes for work breakdown structure (WBS). Thus, ontology may improve the efficiency of cost estimation and systematization by reusing construction information. As a further step, the interoperability method will enhance overall construction project management.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. UrbSys Lab, Rinker School of Construction Management, College of Design, Construction, and Planning, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA

    Haekyung Im

  2. School of Architectural Engineering, Korea University of Technology and Education, Cheonan, 31253, Korea

    Minhui Ha, Donghee Kim & Jaehyun Choi

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  1. Haekyung Im
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  2. Minhui Ha
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  3. Donghee Kim
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  4. Jaehyun Choi
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Correspondence to Jaehyun Choi.

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Im, H., Ha, M., Kim, D. et al. Development of an Ontological Cost Estimating Knowledge Framework for EPC Projects. KSCE J Civ Eng 25, 1578–1591 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12205-021-1582-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12205-021-1582-8

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