Delay Analysis in Construction and Project Planning and Scheduling Using Primavera P6: A Review

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Delay Analysis in Construction and Project Planning and Scheduling Using Primavera P6: A Review Mr. F.M. Saiyad1, Dr. J. M. Shinde2 1 P.G. Student of M.Tech, Dept. of Civil-Construction and Management, Ashokrao Mane Group of Institutions

Vathar, Tarf Vadgaon, Dist-Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India 2 P. G. Project Guide, Head of Department, Department of Civil Engineering, Ashokrao Mane Group of Institutions

Vathar, Tarf Vadgaon, Dist-Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------

Abstract - The paper aims on reviewing the journals which

drawn regarding specific causes of delays (Sharmila et al., 2024).

are based on delay analysis in construction industry and Planning and scheduling of projects by Primavera P6. Total 15 journals were studied. The most of the journals were based on delay analysis in construction projects. The main purpose of the paper is to review various journals and find out the best suited method used for delay analysis and the software use for Planning and Scheduling of the various projects also some methods that are used for the various delay analysis. Delays in construction projects are a recurring challenge, often leading to significant setbacks in terms of time, cost, and quality. As the construction sector serves as a major driver of both rural and urban infrastructure development, inefficiencies within this industry can hinder broader economic progress. This research contributes by presenting a concise analysis of the principal causes behind cost overruns in construction projects.

By identifying these underlying issues, stakeholders can take informed steps to address them and minimize their impact.

The study is particularly aimed at assisting professionals in the public construction sector to adopt proactive measures for reducing delays and ensuring timely project completion. The construction industry plays a vital role in national development but frequently faces project delays, leading to cost overruns and reduced quality. This study identifies the key causes of such delays and their financial impact. It highlights the importance of consistent funding, skilled financial management, and timely progress payments to ensure project continuity. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders especially in public sector projects can implement strategies to minimize delays and enhance overall project performance.

As construction projects become increasingly large and complex, efficient communication and timely information exchange become more challenging. At the core of any successful construction project lie the principles of proper planning and development. The three critical parameters that influence project outcomes are time, cost, and quality.

Delays can adversely affect one or more of these elements.

Improper execution and inadequate risk assessment further worsen the situation.

Modern project management tools such as Primavera P6 are highly effective in enabling detailed planning, scheduling, and monitoring of construction activities. The software assists in estimating the start and finish times of various tasks, thereby minimizing potential delays. Moreover, risk and delay analysis can be enhanced by integrating feedback obtained through structured questionnaires into the planning process.

Several studies have focused on the application of Delay Analysis Methods (DAMs), such as the SCL Protocol and AACE International Recommended Practices. These studies recommend integrating such tools into contractual frameworks to ensure fair and accurate Extensions of Time (EOT) (Rathee and Kabre, 2018). Primavera was also used to compare planned versus actual schedules, revealing the importance of proactive delay management during the construction phase. The study further emphasized developing strategies to mitigate risks throughout the project lifecycle (Mate and Hinge, 2015).

Key Words: Primavera P6, Delay analysis, Stakeholders, Cost over , Scheduling , etc.

Various journals have discussed the use of software tools for time management, such as scheduling with Primavera P6.

Techniques like Time Impact Analysis (TIA) have been used by project managers for more accurate delay assessments.

Several researchers identified that critical delay factors often stem from poor planning and scheduling, as well as external influences and financial constraints. Delays caused by such factors frequently lead to cost overruns and project inefficiencies.

1.INTRODUCTION Most of the research studies have utilized statistical methods and questionnaire surveys to identify the primary causes of construction delays. The Relative Importance Index (RII) was commonly applied for survey analysis, while some researchers also employed SPSS software for delay analysis and Primavera for achieving effective project management results (Aravindhan et al., 2023). Using pre-structured questionnaires and statistical techniques, conclusions were

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Therefore, effective delay analysis and proper time management are crucial to reducing financial losses in future projects. Primavera P6 plays a vital role in managing day-today and weekly schedules, allowing for continuous monitoring and control. The software has been widely reviewed in academic literature as a reliable tool for realtime project tracking, often in combination with questionnaire surveys and performance monitoring.

planning and scheduling that often contribute to time overruns. Using pre structured questionnaire surveys and statistical techniques, the authors analyzed onsite conditions to identify critical delay factors and suggested that proper assessment of these elements is crucial for effective project management.

2.

Aravindhan et al. (2023) explored delay analysis using Primavera and SPSS software tools. The study emphasized that time management plays a pivotal role in construction, equating time savings with cost savings. Using the Relative Importance Index (RII), the authors prioritized various risk factors influencing schedule delays and evaluated their significance, thereby offering insights into improving project timelines.

3.

Amin Sherif et al. (2023) categorized delay occurrences into three major project phases: mobilization, construction, and closeout. They reviewed several delay analysis techniques and identified Time Impact Analysis (TIA) as the most effective method. TIA’s forward-looking approach allows project managers to better predict and mitigate the impact of delays based on their timing and context.

4.

Zayyanu Mohammed et al. (2022) presented a systematic literature review encompassing 51 peerreviewed journal articles. The research classified studies by geography, methodology, and thematic focus, revealing that Asia contributed the most literature on this topic. The authors called attention to gaps in current research and emphasized the need for improved methodologies to address delay causes more comprehensively.

s modern construction projects continue to expand in scale and complexity, the industry is increasingly turning to advanced software solutions to enhance productivity, meet stringent deadlines, and optimize resource utilization. One such widely adopted tool is Primavera P6, a robust project management software developed by Oracle. Renowned for its capability to handle large-scale, multi-project environments, Primavera P6 can manage up to 100,000 activities while effectively tracking resources, costs, and project timelines. It provides a comprehensive framework for planning, scheduling, monitoring, and controlling all phases of construction projects. By enabling more precise and efficient project management, Primavera P6 helps prevent delays that typically arise from improper planning and scheduling.

5.

Dixit and Kudari et al. (2021) addressed delay issues prevalent in the construction industry over several decades. They advocated for enhanced project and technical management, as well as the integration of modern technologies. Their study involved a survey-based assessment, categorizing delay factors into seven groups and comparing them based on impact severity.

6.

Paray and Kumar et al. (2021) identified 46 delay causes from a thorough literature review, narrowing down to five highly severe ones. Their findings underscore the importance of early identification and prioritization of critical delay factors that negatively influence project performance.

2. LITERATURE REVIEW

7.

Majnoor and Joy et al. (2020) focused on two case studies—a healthcare facility and an infrastructure project. Their study stressed the importance of efficient planning and scheduling to reduce costs, avoid disputes, and maintain workflow continuity.

1.1 Questionnaire surveys The objective of this study is to critically evaluate previous research in order to identify the key factors contributing to time delays and cost overruns in ongoing construction projects. Project delays often result in either extensions or accelerated work schedules, both of which typically incur additional costs. To develop a comprehensive understanding of these challenges, relevant studies from various regions across the globe have been reviewed and synthesized.

Researchers have categorized and analyzed the causes of delays and overruns from different perspectives, emphasizing specific areas for in-depth examination. Time and cost overruns in construction are attributed to a wide range of interrelated factors. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in projects experiencing significant delays, often exceeding both their original timelines and budgetary allocations.

Most of the findings in the reviewed literature have been derived through the analysis of structured questionnaire surveys. These instruments were designed to evaluate the frequency of occurrence, severity of impact, and overall significance of each identified cause.

1.2 Primavera P6

1.

Sharmila et al. (2024) conducted an extensive investigation into the causes of delays in construction projects. Their study highlights key issues in project

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They highlighted the need for technological and human resource improvements in today’s competitive construction environment.

8.

Jayawant and Kudari et al. (2020) performed an in-depth survey involving experienced professionals to uncover the primary delay factors in construction.

By employing the RII method, they quantified the impact of each cause and provided strategic insights for project managers aiming to minimize delays and cost overruns.

9.

Tosniwal et al. (2018) examined the effects of delays on cost and schedule performance. The research identified major contributors such as poor planning, labor shortages, and procurement delays.

Data from experienced engineers helped validate these findings, reinforcing the need for better resource and schedule management.

10.

Rathee and Kabre et al. (2018) focused on delay analysis methods (DAMs) used in the Indian construction industry. They observed a limited application of formal DAMs like the SCL Protocol and AACE standards. The study recommended integrating these tools into contractual frameworks to ensure fair and accurate extensions of time (EOT).

11.

Upadhyay, Gupta, and Pandey et al. (2016) emphasized the importance of experienced contractors and design teams in preventing delays.

Their Gwalior-based case study illustrated how mismanagement in planning, scheduling, and subcontractor coordination can adversely affect project delivery.

12.

13.

14.

15.

3. CAUSES OF CONSTRUCTION DELAYS REVIEW The findings of this study reveal that changes in project plans often lead to several negative outcomes, including increased project costs, project abandonment, delayed payments, additional compensation to contractors, and missed completion deadlines. A delay is defined as the failure to complete project activities within the scheduled timeframe. The analysis identifies the five most significant causes of construction delays, which are explored in detail to help mitigate their impact on project performance.

Cconstruction delays frequently arise from multiple interrelated factors. These include poor planning and project mismanagement, incomplete design documentation and delays in drawing approvals, shortages of labor or workforce strikes, and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, frequent design changes during construction, ineffective communication among stakeholders, and delays in material deliveries or equipment malfunctions further contribute to schedule overruns. These issues often lead to increased project costs, extended timelines, contractor claims, and in severe cases, project abandonment. Understanding these root causes is essential for developing effective strategies to minimize delays and enhance overall project performance.

4. EFFECTS OF CONSTRUCTION DELAYS Construction delays can have serious consequences for all project stakeholders. The six major impacts typically observed include:

Meena and Babu et al. (2015) found recurring delay causes such as labor shortages, external disruptions, and financial issues. Their analysis revealed that contractors contribute most significantly to delays, followed by clients and consultants. The study highlighted resource allocation as a key area for schedule optimization.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Varghese and Varghese et al. (2015) conducted a survey in Cochin to identify the most common delay factors. They employed the Frequency Index to rank causes, enabling project teams to focus on mitigating the top ten delay drivers identified in the study.

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Time overruns Cost overruns Legal disputes Arbitration proceedings Project abandonment Litigation

These outcomes often lead to deteriorating relationships among clients, contractors, and consultants. Moreover, prolonged and unresolved delays can diminish investor confidence and threaten the overall financial feasibility of the project, ultimately affecting the broader economic landscape.

Mate and Hinge et al. (2015) used Primavera to compare planned and actual schedules. They found that delays often stemmed from indecisive management during construction. The study recommended that mitigation strategies be developed collaboratively by all stakeholders to reduce risks during the project lifecycle.

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Kolhe et al. (2014) analyzed time and cost overruns in residential projects, noting that larger budgets often experience more significant delays.

Their findings linked delay to increased financial claims and fluctuation-related expenses, stressing the economic implications of inefficient time management.

5. IMPORTANCE OF PLANNING AND SCHEDULING Effective planning and scheduling are fundamental to successful construction project management. They help engineers and project managers deliver projects on time and

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within budget. Construction involves not only physical execution using labor, materials, and equipment but also the full project lifecycle from initial concept to completion.

Strategic planning at each stage ensures optimal resource utilization, minimizes risks, and improves overall project efficiency.

[6].Waqar Ahmad Paray, Chitranjan Kumar "DELAY ANALYSIS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS” International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:09/September2021 pp (857-864) [7].Nifla Majnoor ,Angela C Joy “Planning, Scheduling and Delay Analysis of a Healthcare and an Infrastructure Construction Project” International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)Volume: 07 Issue: 07 | July 2020 pp(1223-1127)

6. CONCLUSIONS The review indicates that delay analysis in construction projects is most commonly conducted using questionnairebased surveys. These surveys typically engage key stakeholders such as consultants, clients, owners, architects, supervisors, contractors, and labours, while also considering external influences that affect project schedules and budgets.

A consistent finding across various studies is that cost overruns are one of the most significant outcomes of project delays. Among the primary causes, inadequate planning and ineffective scheduling are frequently cited. To address these challenges, project management tools like Primavera P6 have proven effective in tracking progress against planned timelines, helping to identify and mitigate delays early in the process. Overall, delay analysis plays a critical role in the construction industry, as ongoing delays not only increase project costs but also impede organizational growth and operational efficiency.

[8].Bhatale Somaj Jayawant, Prof. Shashank U. Vanakudari " Delay analysis in construction " International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 23950056 Volume: 07 Issue: 08 | Aug 2020 pp(4254-4261) [9}.Mr. Ram B. Tosniwal, Prof. Shashank U. Vanakudari “Delay Analysis And Its Effects In Construction Industry” International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 05 Issue: 07 | July 2018 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 ,pp(121-127) [10].Ombir Rathee,Dr. Chiterrekha Kabre "Delay analysis method in Indian construction industry” International Journal of Research in Advanced Engineering and Technology ISSN: 2455-0876 Impact Factor: RJIF 5.44 www.newengineeringjournal.in Volume 4; Issue 2; May 2018; pp(69-72)

REFERENCES [1] Ms.G Sharmila, M.Dhivya, Senthil Naathan, Dr A Kumar “Assessment Of Time Delay Analysis In Construction Projects” International Journal On Engineering Technology and Sciences – IJETS ISSN (P):2349-3968, ISSN (O): 2349-3976 Volume XI - Issue II, February – 2024 ,pp (165-176)

[11].Anil Upadhyay, Vaishant Gupta, Dr. Mukesh Pandey”A case study on schedule delay analysis in construction projects in Gwalior” International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395 -0056 Volume: 03 Issue: 05 | May-2016 pp(1312-1315)

[2}C. Aravindhan, R. Santhoshkumar, Khumukcham Bonny, K . Vidhya, S. Manishankar, P. Dhamodharam” Delay analysis in construction project using Primavera & SPSS” Science Direct Volume 80, Part 3, 2023,pp(3171-3177) [3]Mr.Amin Sherif , Mr. Ahmed Mohamed Abdelalim,”Delay Analysis Techniques and Claim Assessment in Construction Projects” International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations ISSN 2348-7585 (Online) Vol. 10, Issue 2,March 2023, pp: (316-325),

[13].Mrs. Rani M. Mate, Dr. G. A. Hinge "Delay Mitigation in the Construction Industry “International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT)ISSN: 22780181,Vol. 4 Issue 06, June-2015 , pp (172-176) [14].Ar. Meena. V and Ar. K. Suresh Babu(2015). “Study on Time Delay Analysis for Construction Project Delay Analysis”, International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT), Vol. 4 Issue 03, March-2015.

[4].Mr.Zayyanu Mohammed, Mr.Umar Bello, “Causes of Delay in Construction Projects: A Systematic Review” International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT) http://www.ijert.org ISSN: 2278-0181 Issue 03, March-2022 ,pp(36-72)

[15].Mr. Rahul Kolhe, Mr. Milind Darade,”Detail Analysis of Delay in Construction Projects” IJISET - International Journal of Innovative Science, Engineering & Technology, Vol. 1 Issue 10, December 2014 ,pp(70-72)

[5].Mr. Rohan Dixit,Prof. Shashank, U. Vanakudari” delay analysis in construction International Research Journal of Modernization in Engineering Technology and Science Volume:03/Issue:09/September-2021 pp -(857-864)

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[12].Aedwin Regi Varghese,, Shibi Varghese "ANALYSIS OF DELAYS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS” International Journal of Engineering Research and General Science Volume 3, Issue 6, November-December, 2015 pp (108-112)

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