The AEC Dilemma—Exploring the Barriers To Change

Abstract

While the design and construction industry continues to discuss ways of improving project costs and schedules, the conventional processes to which it adheres prevent it from achieving any significant progress. Better technologies can and should be developed to help the industry reduce waste in its processes, break down barriers to improvements, and radically change the industry. Gains can be made by implementing a “platform” approach that draws on the experience of many experts and involves all parties at the beginning of a design project; by using rule-based, object-oriented design technologies; by merging disciplines within firms; and by sharing risks and rewards more equally among partners.