INFORMATION MANAGEMENT USING INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT ON CONSTRUCTION SITES

Abstract

Construction projects are generally information-intensive, entailing multiple stakeholders at different phases. Efficient project delivery and performance heavily relies on the inter-stakeholder relations that relies on proper information management (IM). Nonetheless, the current practices in Pakistan’s construction industry do not provide a viable environment for timely information access and sharing among stakeholders. The lack of implementation of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for IM remains one of prime factors in project delay, cost overrun and reworks on most projects. This study conducted a survey with 180 construction industry professionals, which revealed the sector-wise state of affairs of IM at construction sites in Pakistan, including the awareness about modern ICT tools and barriers to their adoption. It has also identified the key performance indicators required in ICTs for improving construction information management resulting in better communication and coordination among stakeholders. An IM framework is also proposed to facilitate ICT adoption based on the construction sector by overcoming the barriers through need assessment and increasing awareness. This research strives to standardize the management of project’s internal and external communication and give access to real-time information for improving the overall project performance.