A DEVELOPMENT MODEL FOR IDENTIFYING THE UNCERTAINTY SOURCES AND THEIR IMPACTS ON BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Bridge construction projects are rife with uncertainty because of their unique features, from execution of the work, time estimation, inspection and assessment to fund allocation. Therefore, a critical step is recognise and categorise the uncertainties associated in bridge building in order to meet project objectives in terms of quality, cost, schedule, environmental, safety, and technical indicators. Various models, however, have been created to detect and prioritise the uncertainty. One of the most commonly used approaches for dealing with uncertainty is the spherical fuzzy set. To formulate an issue, this technique uses a mathematical procedure. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP), on the other hand, is a computer technique that solves a complicated problem by breaking it down into numerous basic problems. A hybrid model based on spherical fuzzy sets and AHP (SAHP) can benefit from both approaches. This study proposes a SAHP based on group decision making (GSAHP) to prioritise the sources of uncertainty in bridge construction projects. Likewise, a modified algorithm is proposed for checking the consistency of the spherical fuzzy matrices. To show the model potential, a real case study is illustrated and evaluated. The model demonstrates its capabilities in modelling uncertainty under an environment with a number of unknown components. The findings reveal that the delays factor is of the highest, and the project team conflicts parameter is of the least importance. The research findings could be used by decision makers and managers to develop preventive measures.

Automated summary

Bridge construction projects are complex and uncertain, requiring the identification and categorization of uncertainties in order to achieve project objectives. The spherical fuzzy set and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) are commonly used approaches to deal with uncertainty. This study proposes a hybrid model based on spherical fuzzy sets and AHP (SAHP) to prioritize uncertainties in bridge construction projects, and a modified algorithm to check the consistency of the spherical fuzzy matrices. The model demonstrates its capability in modeling uncertainty and the research findings can be used by decision makers and managers to develop preventive measures.