Procedure for managing interferences in construction projects: Application in a high-altitude mining project

Abstract

The construction industry faces a structural challenge related to the occurrence of interferences—or clashes—during project execution, which frequently lead to significant deviations in schedule, cost, and quality. Using a Design Science Research approach and a case study of CODELCO’s “Habitability” project, this study develops and validates an integrated procedure for planning and controlling interferences. Through Ishikawa diagrams and the “5 Whys” method, eight recurrent types of interferences and their root causes were identified. Value stream mapping and IDEF0 functional modeling were then used to integrate management tools such as BIM, risk matrices, SDI, and schedule optimization techniques. A pilot implementation reduced the impact of interferences by 77%, shortened the project duration by 50 days, and generated estimated savings of approximately CLP 1.796 billion, without increasing staffing or indirect costs. These results demonstrate the feasibility of a systematic and proactive approach to improve productivity and anticipatory capacity in complex construction projects.