An approach to e-business in construction

A construction supply chain spans over multiple organizations. An organization, supplier or service provider of a specific project, product or service can belong simultaneously to several construction supply chains. Some organizations along the supply chains establish long-term commitments and ties with suppliers and thus create mutual dependency. E-business is the point where economic value creation and information technology comes together. It enables organizations to connect seamlessly to business partners for all their inter-enterprise processes. The Internet and Web technology have emerged as the most cost-effective driving forces in changing the business relation along the construction supply chains. Construction executives are now aware that information technology is a key strategic factor in value creation over their business processes. This paper makes an analysis of the web-based value chains in construction. It discusses the logics of value at play in e-business. Finally, it explores various types of e-business approaches for construction organizations.