An nD modeling enabled collaborative construction supply chain information system

Abstract

There is a growing realization that proper information management is a prerequisite factor for effective supply chain integration and management. This research aims to investigate the development of an nD enabled construction supply chain information system serving both temporary project implementation and long term organization collaboration. Mixed methodologies of literature review, theory analysis and workshop discussion were adopted in this research. The lack of integrated central information system encompassing the whole construction process and stakeholders using standard building information specification was identified as the main causes of lost information, unnecessary re-entering of data and ineffective transference. An nD modeling enabled construction information system consisting of two level supply chain extranet is proposed in this paper, which provides a collaborative information sharing and management platform for both specific project implementation and long term organization cooperation through ongoing works allocation. The system architecture is illustrated in detail. The application in the case study shows the system is effective and adaptive for construction supply chain management.

Keywords: nD Modeling, Construction Supply Chain, Information System