Comparative Study of Conventional and Precast Formwork Systems (A Literature Review)

Formwork systems play a crucial role in determining the efficiency, quality, and cost of concrete construction. This study presents a comparative analysis between conventional and precast formwork systems based on key performance indicators such as construction time, material utilization, cost efficiency, and labor productivity. Data were obtained through literature review and field observations on building projects employing both systems. The results reveal that the precast formwork system significantly improves construction speed, reduces on-site labor, and enhances structural consistency, making it more suitable for large-scale and repetitive projects. Conversely, the conventional formwork system remains advantageous for small or irregular structures due to its flexibility and lower initial investment. The study concludes that choosing the optimal formwork system should consider project size, design complexity, and sustainability aspects. Future research is recommended to integrate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) approaches to evaluate environmental and operational impacts, as well as to explore hybrid systems that combine the benefits of both methods for sustainable construction practices.