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Information use and sharing in the construction industry: a case study
Last modified: 2009-11-23
Abstract
Purpose of this paper – The construction industry is known for its slow uptake of information and communication technology. The type and number of participants vary with each construction project and participants get together for a specific project. These formal relationships are again dissolved after the project is completed. This is inhibiting the industry from using an information technology based in the supply chain. In this study a small building project was used as a case study to document the participants and their role in the building process. The supply chain from an owner/builder perspective was investigated and the flow of information among all participants was followed during the construction of the building. A model of the supply chain, indicating all information flows, is one of the outcomes of this study.
Methodology/Scope – A case study methodology was used to do an in-depth study of the participants involved in this project and the information sharing practices used between the participants. Apart from site visits, the owner and principal contractor were interviewed several times and the researcher inspected relevant documentation.
Findings – The use of information and communication technology to collaborate among the different participants in the supply chain in this project was extremely low. The telephone and fax was used as the main communication medium. Some participants, such as the draughtsman, used no information technology, whereas others used only basic word processing applications. Secondary participants, such as some suppliers, used emails to communicate with the owner. The owner again used the Internet extensively to research products and materials used in the building process.
Value – This study is part of a bigger research project that will not only document how and when information is used in the South African construction industry, but also suggests how modern information and communication technologies can enhance collaboration in the construction industry supply chain. Methods must be found to encourage this industry to utilize information and communication technology not only as part of the supply chain, but also to collaborate with all stakeholders of a construction project.
Methodology/Scope – A case study methodology was used to do an in-depth study of the participants involved in this project and the information sharing practices used between the participants. Apart from site visits, the owner and principal contractor were interviewed several times and the researcher inspected relevant documentation.
Findings – The use of information and communication technology to collaborate among the different participants in the supply chain in this project was extremely low. The telephone and fax was used as the main communication medium. Some participants, such as the draughtsman, used no information technology, whereas others used only basic word processing applications. Secondary participants, such as some suppliers, used emails to communicate with the owner. The owner again used the Internet extensively to research products and materials used in the building process.
Value – This study is part of a bigger research project that will not only document how and when information is used in the South African construction industry, but also suggests how modern information and communication technologies can enhance collaboration in the construction industry supply chain. Methods must be found to encourage this industry to utilize information and communication technology not only as part of the supply chain, but also to collaborate with all stakeholders of a construction project.
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