Towards a process based information architecture for construction

Abstract

This paper presents an information architecture (IA), or a scheme for organizing the categories of required information, to support computer integrated construction. This IA is developed through the analysis of a process model of the functions required to provide an operational facility to the end user during the life of the facility. It has four broad categories of information: product elements (sometimes referred to as product modelling); process control elements (sometimes referred to as project management); feedback elements (sometimes referred to as project control); and finally, constraint elements (typically the codes, economy etc.). The structure for the IA is discussed and detailed definitions of the elements and subelements in each category are presented. These definitions include examples of documents found in use on sites visited. Finally, a strategy for further developing the information architecture is proposed.

Keywords:

• computer integrated construction
• data structures
• information architecture
• process modelling
• product modelling