Managing, Processing, and Communicating Information: What A/E/C/ Organizations Should Know

Abstract

Global competition and advances in information technology (IT) are placing new demands on the management techniques used on architectural, engineering, and construction (A/E/C) projects. There are opportunities as well as challenges. The revolution under way in the fields of data sharing and transmission, information processing, and telecommunication technology is opening up new possibilities in the A/E/C industry for effectively meeting these market demands. The dynamic nature of construction processes, the interdependence of various participating entities, and the need for teamwork, flexibility, and a high degree of coordination suggest IT can be profitably employed for effective project management in the A/E/C industry. The distinctive features of A/E/C projects make the task of project management particularly appropriate for applications of IT tools.