Project cash flow analysis in the presence of uncertainty in activity duration and cost

The inherent uncertainty and imprecision in project scheduling have motivated the proposal of several fuzzy set theory based extensions of activity network scheduling techniques. Building upon these, a cash flow calculation methodology for projects including activities with fuzzy durations and/or costs is proposed in this paper. According to the proposed approach, the project cash flow is represented by an S-surface (as opposed to the traditional S-curve) ensuing by connecting S-curves at different risk possibility levels. The methodology is exemplified by estimating the working capital requirements in a real world road construction project. Furthermore, the benefits of the methodology and its subsequent computerization are discussed. It is believed that the proposed approach may also be useful for both evaluating project proposals during feasibility studies and for performing earned value analysis for project monitoring and control.

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► Cash flow calculation in activity networks with uncertain durations and/or costs.
► Cash flow is presented by an S-surface created by connecting different S-curves.
► Insight on uncertainty is attained with graphs, cross sections and gradient plots.
► Methodology is exemplified for estimation of project working capital requirements.
► Future work includes evaluating project proposals and project monitoring.