A STUDY ON IMPLEMENTATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ARCHITECT - CONSULTANT-CONTRACTOR INTERFACE

Abstract

Construction still remains as one of the key sectors of industry. A profile of projects for the past years can show that there is a decrease in the project duration for projects with similar contract values. The complexity of projects have also increased due to the demanding requirements of the Clients. Performance of any project is pivoted on interfacing of Architect, Consultant and Contractor. This necessitates the harnessing of IT for efficient building process, both for design and construction. There has been a lot of research studies and field applications in U.K, Japan, Sweden etc... to use IT as a strategic weapon in construction. Apart from the traditional role of word processing, drafting and inventory/accounting, there is sufficient developments in technology7 to facilitate hardware and software support for computer aided construction. The success of IT application in the field of banking, hotels etc.. testifies this. However, the fragmented nature of industry is often pointed out as a hurdle for IT implementation. A cost -benefit analysis or causal logic method will not be able to justify the expenditure on IT. However a more pragmatic or quantitative value added approach has to be adopted. further orientation and guidance is needed to be given to the players in the industry to fully utilise the services of AEC Centre and other Services by CIDB. Owners must insist on IT as a tool and a selling point in the construction industry. In order to facilitate the implementation of IT, a break from the traditional procurement methods may be necessary. Architects, Engineers and other professions may face realignment of traditional practices and redistribution of responsibilities with the continued development of systems; those who adapt have the potential for growth and greater productivity and hence greater competitiveness in construction industry. Information Technology can be used to improve communications, to support group interaction and to manage workflow. However, such a system cannot be developed overnight. It can be achieved only through a total data integration and standardisation with the co-operation of all members of the construction industry.