Computer integrated planning and design for construction

This book is about the intelligent application of advanced information technology tools (such as CAD and KBES) to design and planning in construction. It considers the current applications of computer tools and presents new ideas for the use of these tools in design and planning processes, concentrating on a preliminary design stage. The main aim of this text is to demonstrate the implementation of these ideas and uncover the extroadinary opportunities for design improvement as a result. An important feature of this book is its relevance to the work of all participants in the design of buildings - from architects to quantity surveyors. Another useful feature is its use of clear engineering language.

Part 1, Covers the background to information technology in construction with a discussion of a wide range of applications to the technical and informational environments. Issues such as databases and interactive computer grpahics, Geographic Information Systems and their uses and artifical intelligence are included. Part 2, Refines this to present specific applications of IT for constrcution projects. In particular computer applications to planning and scheduling, visualisation and concurrent engineering are aired. Part 3, Explores the business uses of IT. How computing may be used to support Strategic Management in construction firms is central to this section. Part 4 , Provides a number of case studies of how IT has shaped business processes in construction firms. A glossary of key terms is also included.