An uncertainty-based framework to support decision-making in geotechnical engineering projects

Construction projects are inherently risky undertakings. They are exposed to uncertainties that can either result in failures or the impediment of the project to achieve some of its objectives. This is particularly true in the case of geotechnical engineering. Uncertainties of ground conditions can adversely affect project time, costs as well as safety on any construction project. Conventional techniques used by project management are in many cases insufficient to deal with these uncertainties. This paper describes a PhD project in its very early stages, with the objectives of dealing with the issues of geotechnical engineering and in particular ground related uncertainties. The paper defines the research problem and provides a comprehensive review of literature available on the subject. A main objective of this research project is to identify principal drivers and sources of uncertainties in ground related construction and to develop a framework to support decision-making in managing these uncertainties. The development of the framework will be based on the information collected from the literature review and which will be complemented by data elicited from cases and during interviews with experts. The paper discusses elements that will be required to be included in the framework and how it will be used in supporting decision making