ICT tools for improving the competitiveness of the LSE industry

This paper describes an analysis of Product Data and Information Technologies (PDIT) which are available to support processes in Large Scale Engineering (LSE), particularly those which are construction related. Three main areas are addressed: supporting environment; systems and technologies; and application software. On-going and future developments in these areas are considered. The findings from each of the PDIT areas examined are presented, together with their potential opportunities for exploitation within LSE in construction. The perceived barriers to the adoption of such technologies are also addressed. Considerations are given to the most significant emerging technologies within the IT industry and the potential impact these may have on the business needs within LSE. The work was undertaken within the User Reference Project ESPRIT 20876 eLSEwise European Large Scale Engineering Wide Integration Support Effort.