Recognizing the Significance of Human Resource Through Human Resource Information Systems in the Construction Sector

The value of human resources in every commercial and industrial sector cannot be over-emphasized. Even in the age of automation, management of human resources has never been more significant or relevant. Information technology can help in management of human resources such that companies can make optimum utilization of skills and experience while keeping costs low. In this chapter, the authors touch upon the various aspects of human resource information systems and the usefulness of such in managing human relations across all levels of employment.

Automating Information Flow in Civil Construction Through Internet of Things

The concept of internet of things, or IoT as it is popularly referred to, came into being when it was discovered that it is possible for computers to communicate with devices ranging from simple home appliances to industrial machinery and equipment without the need for any human intervention. The fact that IoT makes it possible for computers to simplify manufacturing processes and bring about a radical change in our daily lives, making this technology an important step forward and in tandem with cloud computing. In this chapter, the authors discuss the contributions that IoT can make in construction industry. With IoT it is possible for a machine to let a remote computer know from any part of the world its current status and physical disposition. For construction firms that need to operate machinery and equipment in distant locations, IoT makes it possible to collect monitor and manage in real-time.

Understanding How Information Technology Can Help in Contracts Management

Contracts management is a multi-stage process involving all parties related to a contract. It ensures that all stated objectives are met, and timelines adhered to corresponding to project execution and delivery. The fundamental premise of contracts management is to ensure quality, compliance, and cost optimization. There are several forms of contract each with its own unique features and applications. In this chapter, the authors focus on how information technology can be used to aid in supervision of contracts, materials management, survey, and design management. They also discuss the role of smart contracts and the underlying blockchain technology that is used as the basis for making smart contracts work.

Information Technology and Construction Industry

For thousands of years, construction engineering has played a vital role in the advancement of human civilization. Humans have always aspired to build taller, grander, and more robust constructions either for civilian purpose or to defend cities and towns from invading armies. The architectural splendour of the pyramids in Egypt and the Great Wall of China are not only awe-inspiring examples for the engineering feats of the ancients but also remarkable for the robustness in evidence for having stood the test of time for over thousands of years since these were built. Modern civil construction engineering, too, requires optimum resource utilization, speed of execution, and adherence to best engineering practices. The rapid strides made in information technology makes it possible for architects and engineers to achieve those goals. This chapter discusses the role and impact that information technology has in the domain of civil engineering and construction sector.

Streamlining Business Operations in Civil Construction Using AI

The concept of artificial intelligence stems from the approach to empower machines to act independently of their human masters. This has been found to be extremely useful in situations where routine or repetitive actions are required to be taken based on given data patterns for which complex algorithms and decision-making processes are required to be executed. In such cases, AI has been proved to be effective in replacing humans. While instances of AI substituting humans may appear to pose potential threats to jobs, induction of AI in manufacturing processes can reduce instances of accidents owing to human fatigue or otherwise threat to life and limb working in dangerous environments. In this chapter, the authors discuss the role of artificial intelligence in building information modeling and knowledge management. They also explain how AI can be used as a building block for a safer and productive work environment.

Cloud Computing and Its Implications for Construction IT

By nature, a construction company needs to have data and information readily available at any stage and at any location. Given the often unstructured and fluid nature of construction activities, construction personnel face the challenge of collecting as well as collating data while on the move and at work under field conditions. With the advent of cloud computing and the rapidly increasing reach of the internet through wireless and mobile network carriers, construction companies are increasingly beginning to explore the power of information technology through cloud and IoT platforms. While at one stage, the cost of maintaining IT infrastructure was expensive for construction companies and engineering firms of all sizes, the rise of cloud computing has enabled to rationalize costs and investments while retaining high levels of productivity and service. This chapter discusses the various options that construction companies now have to choose from to streamline operations and increase productivity.

Paving the Way for Better Construction Designs Aided by Information Technology Tools

With the dawn of the industrial age, construction and manufacturing methods have witnessed revolutionary engineering practices and methods. None have been more significant than that of the influence that information technology has had on civil construction engineering as in many other engineering disciplines and spheres. In this chapter, the authors discuss how computer-aided design and drawing software, the internet, building information modelling, and 4D and 5D CAD/CAM systems have revolutionized the way construction engineers, designers, and architects work. They also discuss the various types of software available in the market, each with a specific goal and engineering purpose. They also offer brief comparisons on several types of design software so that readers can grasp quickly the salient features that each have to offer.

Moving Ahead With Enterprise Resource Planning Systems in Civil Construction

Commerce and trade around the world require cutting edge tools and business process systems to stay competitive. All around us, this is manifested in how industries—big or small—conduct businesses and adopt new manufacturing and business systems to remain profitable. During the mid-20th century, businesses in the Western world began to adopt material requirements planning to streamline production processes till the finished product. While material requirements planning itself, at that point of time, was not unheard of, the introduction of computers and information technology revolutionised the way material requirements planning was adopted. Researchers and proponents of an integrated information system agree that material requirements planning predated enterprise resource planning (ERP) that has since been a central theme and prime mover of all information and data within organizations.

Information Technology in Materials Management

Ensuring proper supply and timely delivery of materials during every stage of construction is crucial for overall project success. The task of managing materials is difficult and requires considerable effort on the part of engineers, project planners, supervisors, logistics teams, and storekeepers. This chapter explains the problems associated with materials management and how information technology can help in solving those issues. The authors discuss the use of RFID and the role that this technology can play in tracking shuttering components, such as Mivan, and many similar high-value raw materials and even smaller items. They also discuss how bar and QR codes can help in materials management.

The Role of Software in Construction Management

Civil construction projects not only need to be executed on time; these also require that budgetary overruns are not allowed to take place needlessly. The traditional constraints involving time, quality, and money must always be paid close attention for a project to be considered commercial and engineering success. In this chapter, the authors discuss the role of project management software and the various commercial options available in the software market for entrepreneurs, engineers, and project planners to explore. They also discuss the need for activity codes and project scheduling types and the significance of these in civil construction engineering. The importance of planning and scheduling cannot be overestimated in a world where competition is high and civil construction companies often find themselves on razor's edge to stay afloat and remain profitable.