Partnership for a National Computer-Integrated Knowledge Systems Network for High-Performance Construction Materials and Systems: Workshop Report.
Partnership for a National Computer-Integrated Knowledge
Systems Network for High-Performance Construction
Materials and Systems: Workshop Report.
(5308 K)
Clifton, J. R.; Sunder, S. S.
NISTIR 6003; 58 p. March 1997.
Available from:
National Technical Information Service
Order number: PB97-167506
Keywords:
construction materials; computer integrated knowledge
system; construction industry; information technology;
knowledge systems; pilot projects; workshop; high
performance construction materials
Abstract:
The nation's construction industry is fragmented, being
composed of many small firms; it tends to be a low
profit margin industry which is averse to risk taking.
Also, in general it is a low technology industry.
However, changes appear to be occurring as the industry
becomes increasingly aware of the importance of
knowledge and information dissemination. Limits on
knowledge of materials affects: the capacity to
construct; construction productivity; durability of
constructed facilities; and, becoming increasingly
important, environmental issues. According to the Civil
Engineering Research Foundation (CERF), the construction
industry materials information technology needs include:
(1) a universal base of knowledge; (2) inexpensive,
decentralized, and user-friendly access; (3) an expanded
level of information development and organization; (4)
reliable information on risk and innovation, information
is needed on i) material performance and durability, and
ii) materials cost; (5) standardized methods for
predicting life-cycle cost. The objectives of the
workshop were to identify and priortize current and
future needs of the construction industry for: (1)
universal electronic access to distributed data,
information, and knowledge on HPCMS; (2) new
applications and/or new ways of using that data,
information, and knowledge in (a) material design,
processing, selection, and testing; and (b) facility
design, construction or installation/application,
operation, maintenance, repair, and disposal; (3)
potential industry-university-goverment partnerships and
pilot projects for testbed activities.
