Intelligent system in the cost control of commercial complex projects: Data-driven optimization method.

Wang, Shiming; Li, Yifei; Yao, Debao; Li, Xiao · PLoS One · 2026

other

Where this comes from

Abstract

Commercial complex development is featured by large scale, complex operational procedures, and prominent challenges in cost management. This study proposes a data-driven intelligent approach for optimizing cost management of commercial complex projects. First,it emphasizes the necessity of applying value engineering (VE) principles-specifically integrating the Function Analysis System Technique (FAST)-in cost control. Subsequently,a model framework is constructed and workflow procedures for construction cost management are formulated,with the core methodology being the integration of VE with a Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) model. The pre-analysis phase involves defining VE study objectives via FAST,using FAHP to determine functional coefficients,and leveraging systematic cost analysis tools.By calculating cost and value coefficients, the model realizes real-time monitoring, thus avoiding irrational construction behaviors and supporting post-implementation reviews for continuous optimization. To validate the model's effectiveness,an existing commercial complex project was selected for optimization. Comparative analysis shows that traditional methods resulted in a total cost of 74,886,333.3 yuan across civil engineering,building construction,HVAC,and electrical engineering,while the optimized approach reduced costs to 72,740,121.5 yuan,achieving a 2.87% cost reduction.