An evaluation of the impact of integration and computerization on construction projects

The level of awareness and actual implementation of integration in the construction industry is growing. The use of computers and of information technology is increasing in the construction industry. The large companies and major universities have already started to develop more integrated approaches supported by information technology in their operations. However, it is not clear at this point how to assess their impact and how to identify in which ways they better support the construction industry and educational programs at large. This research develops a model to evaluate the impact of integration and computerization on construction projects. It also proposes an integrated course curricula that can be used as an innovative educational program where students can integrate knowledge and computer skills which are in increasing demand by the industry. The findings of the research provide guidelines for average companies in identifying suitable ways to increase project integration and to incorporate computer technology into their operations. The evaluation model seems to be robust enough to be used as a benchmarking tool in evaluating the impact of integration and computerization on construction projects and to strategize their future implementations.