Apssplications of multi-agent systems from the perspective of construction management: A literature review

Liqun Xiang, Yongtao Tan, Geoffrey Shen, Xin Jin

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: The applications of multi-agent systems (MASs) are considered to be among the most promising paradigms for detailed investigations and reliable problem-solving methods, and MAS applications make it possible for researchers and practitioners to better understand complex systems. Although a number of prior studies have been conducted to address complex issues that arise from construction projects, few studies have summarised the applications and discussed the capacity of MASs from the perspective of construction management. To fill the gap, this paper provides a comprehensive literature review of MAS applications from the perspective of construction management. Design/methodology/approach: Web of Science and Scopus are the most commonly used international databases in conducting the literature reviews. A total of 86 relevant papers published in SCI-Expanded, SSCI and Ei Compendex journals related to the application of MASs from the perspective of construction management are selected to be analysed and discussed in this paper. Findings: Based on the 86 collected publications, the utilisations of MASs to support the management of the supply chain and the improvement of project performance are identified from the perspective of construction management, the characteristics and barriers of current MAS applications are analysed, a framework for developing agent-based models to address complex problems is proposed, and future research directions of MAS applications are discussed. Originality/value: This review can serve as a useful reference for scholars to enhance their understanding of the current research and guide future research on MASs. The proposed framework can help build agent-based models to address complex problems in construction management.

Original languageEnglish
JournalEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2021

Keywords

  • Agent-based modelling (ABM)
  • Construction management
  • Literature review
  • Multi-agent system (MAS)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Architecture
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • General Business,Management and Accounting

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Apssplications of multi-agent systems from the perspective of construction management: A literature review'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this