Project‐Controls Systems Opportunities

Abstract

The current generation of project‐control systems provides useful information, but has several problems that limit the effectiveness and efficiency in controlling projects. The current generation of project‐control systems has focused on the increased use of the microcomputer for sorting, computing, and storing data. This increased use of the microcomputer has not been without the introduction of difficulties to the process. The problems include input inefficiencies (e.g., multiple input of the same data) and output problems (e.g., extensive tabular listings of data). These problems lead to wasted or ineffective use of time to support the project‐control systems. Potential opportunities and advancements to address these deficiencies are presented. These opportunities include input technologies, analysis techniques, and systems integration. Specific examples discussed include scanning and digitizing technology, holography, artificial intelligence, remote‐sensing technologies, voice‐recognition systems, and enhanced software‐systems development. The areas discussed in this paper are intended to provide direction for future research and development of project‐control software for the next generation of project‐control systems for the construction industry.