A formalised model of the information and materials handling activities in the construction process

Björk, B (2002) A formalised model of the information and materials handling activities in the construction process. Construction Innovation, 2(3), pp. 133-149. ISSN 1471-4175

Abstract

A model of the information and material activities that comprise the overall construction process is presented, using the structured analysis and design technique (SADT) activity modelling methodology. The basic model is refined into a number of generic information handling activities such as the creation of new information, information search and retrieval, information distribution and persontoperson communication. The viewpoint could be described as that of information logistics. The model is then combined with a more traditional building process model, consisting of key phases such as design and construction. The resulting twodimensional matrix can be used for positioning different types of generic ITtools or constructionspecific applications. The model can thus provide a starting point for a discussion of the application of information and communication technology in construction and for measuring its impact on the overall process and its related cost.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: construction process; information logistics; information technology; sadt
Index terms: modelling, information distribution, traditional building, design and construction, design technique, information and communication technology, information technology, methodology, construction process
Subjects: computing systems, design methods, construction type, analytical methods, contractual arrangements, professional development, research methods, building construction
Topics: Digital Applications, Design Practice, Site Management, Engineering Principles, Information Management, Research Practice, Procurement, Construction Technology
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

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