Project Planning and Scheduling in the Face of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

Abstract

This paper addresses the integrated processes of planning and scheduling of projects using technologies advanced tools as means for managing change in the era of the 4IR. The paper explores the traditional project management planning and scheduling tools in conjunction with what technology has to offer, to bridge the gap between the traditional project management planning and scheduling tools and what the modern-day business market demands. An analysis of literature covering a wide range of theoretic and empirical studies was performed. The theories underlying various planning and scheduling methods were analysed in relation to the design of projects. A descriptive quantitative secondary data was used as a tool to assess the impact of technology on project planning for scheduling. The analysis of the study’s data was conducted using the principles of cross - tabulation. Inferences were drawn on the significant impact of the use of advanced technological tools on project planning for scheduling in current business time. Organisations can make use of the findings of this study to correctly apply the available advanced technological tools for more efficient schedule management planning to enhance the successful delivery of their projects. Further, this research can be used to provide learning opportunities for new and inexperienced planners and schedulers, and as a basis for further research in this field of knowledge.