4 Chapter 4: Evaluate Solutions

Objective: Evaluating robotic solutions in construction projects requires a thorough plan considering various options, resources, and team engagement. This step guides the effective implementation of robotic systems (see Figure 4-1).

Figure 4.1. Process of Evaluate Solutions

Create Implementation Plan of Robotics:

There are five core factors to be included in an implementation plan for robotics. A template worksheet to develop this plan can be found in Appendix E.

1. Feasibility of Robotics

One critical factor in the implementation plan is evaluating each robotic’s feasibility from multiple perspectives. One resource to use here is the list created as part of the Robotics Evaluation Framework by Brosque, C. et al. (2020). This evaluates the robotics feasibility from Product, Organization, and Process. This can be found in Appendix F.

2. Additional Resource

Once the feasibility of the robotics is determined, it is also important to identify additional resources needed besides robotics itself that must be considered in the planning phase. For example, an additional generator to charge the robotics may be needed for the implementation of battery-based robotics.

3. Schedule

It is crucial to secure robotics to show up on-site in a timely manner. Also, the expected time required to execute the tasks by the robotics, including set up and onboarding, should be clear in order to align with the project milestones. Even if the goal of implementing robotics is not to boost productivity, the need for schedule coordination between predecessor and successor should be considered.

4. Site Logistics

Site layout when using robotics should be clear and reasonable for the team to implement robotics. Some robotics need the floor to be fully cleared without any workers close before execution, but that might not be ideal in terms of schedule, so this holds a critical factor in the implementation plan.

5. Onboarding

Training and skill development to run the robotics at the construction site may be needed to implement robotics. Some robotics might need an additional license to manipulate. It helps the team understand the onboarding procedure so that the team has enough preparation time before execution.

Stakeholder Buy-In and Concerns:

Once an implementation plan is created for each robotic, gathering feedback and getting stakeholders’ buy-in is important. This activity is highly recommended, especially if any trades will be affected by the implementation of robotics. It is also useful to refer back to stakeholder analysis in Chapter 2. At the end of these, the project team has the refined implementation plan for construction robotics.