Web-based Construction Project Management: Current State, Trends and Potentials

With the beginning of the new millennium, the construction industry has entered into a new era. The concept of managing construction projects using web-based techniques seemed like a mirage just a decade ago, but now is much closer to reality. Contractual, organizational and informational integration in the process of construction can be achieved effectively by the use of Internet and related (such as Intranet and Extranet) technologies. In this paper, a review of current and emerging web-based techniques and methodologies, such as virtual on-line design studios, on-line bidding, on-line project administration, on-line building products catalogues, and project monitoring and control through the use of web-cams is presented. Emerging trends in the field of construction project management with ICT (information and communication technology) are examined and highlighted. Represented case studies from published sources are included in support of the conclusions made.