If you have worked in construction previously, the term forensic schedule analysis should be of no surprise to you. However, for those who are new to the industry, the idea of?forensic analysis?within the construction industry can be confusing. Usually a term associated with crime scenes and scientific investigations, the construction industries use of the term is, thankfully, rather different.
Within construction, forensic schedule analysis is the practice of determining the root cause of any potential project delays. One determined they then use their advanced skills to try and identify the effect they will have on the project?s schedule. Through this they are able to accurately determine how specific events could impact a project?s schedule. In order to do this there are a variety of methods available. Through this article we will discuss the four most commonly known forensic analysis methods.
As planned Vs. As built
This is potentially the most popular of the four methods due to its simplicity. Through this, a forensic analysist will complete a comparison of the planning against the actual performance. They will look at the baseline schedule and then compare this with the actual schedule to check for any discrepancies. This method is widely known as it is simple and easy to understand.
Windows analysis
Next up you have the method, windows analysis. In regards to?forensic scheduling, this is still a relatively simple concept. The overall schedule is divided into windows of shorter duration. The activities completed within theses windows are then updated by the appropriate professionals. This method leaves little to no room for manipulation. Therefore, making windows analysis one of the sturdiest methods available, offering precise reports on delays. Altogether, another favourite for forensic analysis.?
Time impact
Then you have time impact analysis. This delay method considers the cause an effect of a change to a schedule. It is the practice of identifying delays and then determining its relationship to the upcoming activities. This is the preferred method for dealing with complex schedules and is widely accepted. Although this method is good for some projects, it may not be as fitting for others. Due to the delivery method, time impact analysis is easily manipulated, expensive and can be very time consuming.
Collapsed As-Built
Finally, I would like to draw attention to the collapsed as built method of forensic schedule analysis. For this intricate method, the trained professional will use the ?as-built? schedule and remove all delays at fault of the contractor. Although this method is not widely used, it is very useful for working out concurrent delays that may occur.
Where can I learn more about forensic analysis
If this field of work sounds like a route you would like to take, there are lots of options available. The construction industry is fruitful and illustrious, and if done properly, can offer many great benefits. Therefore, in order to give yourself the best chances of success, higher education is strongly recommended, if not required. There are plenty of courses available that can help further educate you in the field of forensic analysis. With courses taking place in face-to-face settings as well as via distance learning, the opportunity is training in this role is accessible and affordable.
Picking your forensic analysis course
Enrolling into further education can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be hard to choose which to take. The risk you run with endless options is picking the wrong course. Therefore, before enrolling, you need to do your research. From personal experience I would recommend the College of Contract Management. They offer both on, and offline courses, depending on your preference. The course is delivered via live online lectures, offering a classroom environment, enabling discussions and networking. It covered some of the potential methods you can use, programmes available and key skills you should practice.
Once working within forensic schedule analysis you will come across each of these methods at least once. Through time you will discover the method that suits you best. It may be that different projects require different methods. Regardless of the knowledge you gain through experience, you need to make sure you have an appropriate understanding of the methods used with forensic analysis before you begin.
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