Identification and analysis of the key variables explaining the variation of adjustment factor k in project scheduling for high-rise construction

In the present study, a multivariate statistical analysis of the key factors that explain the variability of seasonal adjustment factor K, which is determined to correct the duration of the project activities of high-rise construction, with the goal of improving the operational management of such projects regarding deadlines. The buildings considered in this study include housing projects with a height of at least five floors in the region of Coquimbo, Chile. For this, a bibliographic research and personal interview is conducted in order to determine preliminary factors of interest. Then, factor analysis and multi-criteria methodology is applied to a panel of experts and professionals surveyed in order to obtain a series of indicators to select variables with a high contribution coefficient. In light of this, the results show that the seasonal adjustment factor K is mainly explained by five internal factors and five external factors, which are described in the following key areas: personnel at work in the field, availability of materials and equipment, project developer, relationships with suppliers, and regulatory changes. Thus, the management performed on these variables will have a positive impact by improving the aim of finishing the project within the scheduled deadlines.