A STUDY TO PROVIDE SOLUTION TO INTEGRATE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY THROUGH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

The construction industry (CI) is fragmented because of the presence of a large number of players. As such, efficient information exchange and integration between the various parties involved in a project is particularly critical. However, existing information exchange processes are largely paper-based and are not efficient. There is a need to have a Project Website System which is an Internet-based environment for online sharing of project information and enhancement of cross-discipline collaboration and multi-party co-ordination. So, the building plan can be drawn in such a way for cross disciplinary information sharing and exchange. The new concept will cause the reinvention of the local CI with Information Technology (IT) application which emphasis electronic functions such as e-Tendering, e-Measurement and e-Procurement which are flexible to cater for different project natures, operate automatically to reduce manual works, high speed of operation and user friendly. The case studies concluded that the application of current software are facing limitations such as the inadequate functions, inflexible to cater for design changes, experienced unknown error, semi-automatic, expensive, IT support needed, future development needed, security and licensing problems. The case studies also provide an insight to the scepticism of current practising QS towards desired software system. The author attempts to promote and encourage more advanced application of new computer software by introducing the customised quantity surveying model to aid prospective up-graders in commencing the computerisation process and also the existing practitioners to further improve their existing computer software system. An overview on the development of the government initiates will serve to update the local private practitioners on the government incentives to help them tune into the current technology frequency.