The use of standard value/cost flow curves (S-curves) in cash flow forecasting and performance control has been questioned by many researchers in the area of construction management. This is mainly due to the limited accuracy of these curves. This paper addresses this issue by analysing the cumulative cost values of 118 construction projects. Results demonstrates that cost flow profiles vary significantly even which projects are classified using effective criteria. A new approach is therefore needed to simulate and make use of standard S-curves. The paper proposes that stochastic S-curve models should provide better and more useful tools for the aforementioned tasks. Consequently. three stochastic models have been developed to assist contractors use historical cost flow profiles in their cash flow forecasting, cost control and progress control. These models have been validated for accuracy, and visual results confirm their reliability.

purchase the full-text of this paper (price £20)

go to the previous paper
go to the next paper
return to the table of contents
return to the book description
purchase this book (price £85 +P&P)