Jaafari, A; Manivong, K K and Chaaya, M (2001) Vircon: Interactive system for teaching construction management. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 127(1), pp. 66-75. ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
The focus in this paper is on a system, developed by the writers, called VIRCON (short for VIRtual CONstruction), in which the traditional construction planning is combined with 3D/4D models of the project. To facilitate current best practices with 3D/4D models of the project, VIRCON has been implemented using object-oriented programming, client/server configuration, database management information, and CAD systems. The real innovation in the design of VIRCON is associated with the unique scheduling and simulation engine developed to integrate cost planning and scheduling and accommodate integrated cross-impact analysis. VIRCON has been validated by means of student group projects on a course where many of the project management techniques are being taught. The teaching approach conducted with the utilization of VIRCON has shown that way forward in creating a dynamic and interactive learning atmosphere. This paper also outlines the experience gained from teaching construction planning fundamentals by means of the VIRCON system.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Index terms: | programming, configuration, cost planning, impact analysis, scheduling, best practice, construction planning, traditional construction, project management technique, interactive system, database |
| Subjects: | software systems, financial management, data management, systems engineering, heritage and conservation, business, programming, operations research, operations management, construction planning, data analysis and analytics |
| Topics: | Engineering Principles, Project Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy, Cost Management, Site Management, Time Control, Digital Applications, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here