Paradigmatic Framework for Construction Information Technology

The problems that we are dealing with in construction IT were known in the sixties, and are, 30 years later, still not solved. The hypothesis is that the reasons are: (1) the scientific base for construction IT, its paradigmatic framework, is not explicit and (2) that the framework, as implicitly present through research practice, is an incomplete one and that (3) a paradigm shift is needed. In the paper the author introduces the concept of paradigmatic frameworks for sciences. Such a framework includes axiology (values), ontology (what exists), epistemology (where is knowledge) and methodology (rules of inquiry). Current research practices of construction IT is examined in the frames of these categories, as well as the possible alternatives as suggested by Heidegger, Schoen and Kuhn. In addition to objective, measurable progress, efficiency, integration, the axiology needs to consider worker satisfaction, sustainability etc. as important values and goals as well. Ontology should address human work as the most important item that exists and should be studied, not products or processes that can result in limiting, blinding models. Epistemology should confess that the knowledge is in the doing and in thinking about what is being done. Methodology should, because of the problems in the scientific method, consider the use of the Socratic method more often.