Toward a Rigorous Classification of Loss of Productivity Quantification Methods

Lost productivity is a common cause of cost overrun on construction projects and often results in construction claims. There are several different loss of productivity quantification methods and variants of those methods. Due to lack of adequate classification, the use of these methods is not well disciplined. For example, the implementation of the measured mile method can vary significantly between analysts or projects. This paper proposes a more rigorous classification system for loss of productivity quantification methods. This work first defines key dimensions of the hierarchy/matrix of the classification system, including productivity type, measurement perspective, data reliance, similarity requirement, analysis technique, work composition and divisions, causation, and others, and then places various loss of productivity quantification method implementations to different positions in the classification system. With this rigorous classification of loss of productivity methods, the variations between different method implementations can be clearly identified and the exact methodology can be applied to a construction claim in a well-defined and unambiguous manner.