Case-Based Reasoning in Construction Management

Case-based reasoning (CBR) is a highly effective technique in the artificial intelligence (AI) domain capable of solving or providing suggestions for the current problem by storing and retrieving results of previous cases. In the experience-oriented construction industry, knowledge and assessments of previous experience are critical to resolving problems that may reoccur. Applying CBR to construction management overcomes some drawbacks of other AI technologies and adheres to computer application needs in industry. CBR provides an alternative in solving experience-oriented problems. This article not only presents a typical CBR approach but also investigates its potential applications in construction management. An example shows how CBR can be used to estimate construction duration and costs of building construction projects at the preliminary design stage.