Interconnected Component Applications for AEC Software Development

Abstract

The writers expect a surge in interest in computerized management information and decision support systems in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. This trend is nourished by the need for more effective computer support and given momentum by the development of computer tools that facilitate increasing participation from end users. An interconnected component application (ICA), the integration of off-the-shelf software to create customized applications, is introduced and discussed as an alternative route to providing innovative information system solutions. Such applications promise to be modular, flexible, and relatively inexpensive, yet rapid in development. This paper is devoted to the background and technologies supporting ICAs, key elements to implement an ICA, key planning and design guidelines for developing ICA applications, and a description of how user development is accomplished. Two case studies of ICAs developed by the writers are reported, followed by analyses and conclusions.