Integrated Model of Critical Path Method (CPM), Earliest Due Date (EDD), Critical Ratio (CR) and Resource Constraints in Construction Schedule Management

Abstract

Within the construction sector, effective schedule management is fundamental to ensuring timely
delivery, budget adherence, and compliance with quality requirements. Nevertheless, construction projects
frequently encounter interdependent tasks, resource limitations, and stringent deadlines, which increase
scheduling complexity and often result in delays and cost overruns. Established approaches such as the
Critical Path Method (CPM) determine sequences of critical tasks influencing the completion date under the
assumption of unlimited resources, yet fail to address urgent deadlines, varying task urgency, and resource
constraints that frequently arise during execution. The Earliest Due Date (EDD) rule schedules tasks with the
closest deadlines first, whereas the Critical Ratio (CR) method prioritizes tasks by urgency. However, applying
these techniques in isolation remains insufficient for resolving the multifaceted challenges of real-world
construction. The formulation of an integrated framework combining CPM, EDD, CR, and resource-constraint
considerations is therefore both essential and of high practical relevance. Such a framework would enable
schedule managers to identify critical task sequences, optimize resource allocation, prioritize activities at risk
of delay, and narrow the gap between theoretical models and practical requirements in construction schedule
management.