Marsh, L E and Finch, E F (1999) Using portable datafiles in the construction supply chain. Building Research & Information, 27(3), pp. 127-139. ISSN 0961-3218
Abstract
Portable datafile technologies such as high density bar coding and electronic tagging now permit very high information storage capacities. Aside from anecdotal evidence, there are few examples of these technologies being used within construction. This paper explores the potential advantages of using portable datafiles for storing and transmitting information relating to construction materials and components. A structured methodology is presented to aid the definition of (1) information which could be encoded within labels or tags; and (2) the stages within the supply chain where such a device would most fruitfully be employed. A case study is presented which demonstrates both the operational and financial feasibility of using portable datafiles within the scenario of a live project. Recommendations are made for the development of a construction industry standard for portable datafiles as part of a framework to promote more widespread deployment of the technologies.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | auto-id; bar coding; electronic tagging; information management |
| Index terms: | case study, density, auto-id, construction industry, construction supply chain, evidence, construction material, methodology |
| Subjects: | research methods, industry analysis, data collection methods, evaluation and assessment methods, construction logistics, building materials, digital technology, analytical methods |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Engineering Principles, Supply Chain Management, Urban Studies, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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