Portable datafiles in the construction supply chain

Automatic identification (auto-ID) defines a group of technologies that use electronically readable labels or tags. Bar coding is one example of an auto-ID technique which has been proved effective in retailing, automotive manufacture and aerospace. In the US construction industry, these technologies have been used to provide information about a variety of items including hand-tools, components and assemblies - providing savings through improved speed and accuracy of data entry. Despite this, adoption of auto-ID among UK construction firms is almost non-existent. This thesis identifies factors which are likely to attract UK supply chain firms to use auto-ID; the barriers which have prevented some from doing so; and future developments which will be important to encourage more widespread adoption. Key issues identified include a low level of awareness of auto-ID technologies and the absence of appropriate industry standards. Strategic recommendations are presented designed to promote more widespread application of auto-ID. These include the establishment of standards body and educational initiatives. The term portable datafile describes an auto-ID technique that permits very high information storage capacities, e.g. high density bar coding and electronic tagging. A number of potential advantages of using these technologies for storing and transmitting information relating to construction materials and components are identified - including localised access to information and improved decision making. However, aside from anecdotal evidence, there have been very few applications within construction. A structural methodology is presented to aid the definition of (1) information which could be encoded within labels or tags; and (2) the stages within the supply chain where such a device would most fruitfully be employed. A case study is presented which demonstrates both the operational and financial feasibility of using these datafiles within the scenario of a live project. A framework is presented for the development of a construction industry standard for portable datafiles.