Information can be distributed more rapidly to geographically dispersed owners, designers, contractors and suppliers. Correspondence, drawings and photos can be posted on project-specific Internet sites or extranets and cataloged for easy access. Now electronic RFIs can be submitted and logged almost instantly, and responses are often made within days, he adds. Mass. The increased efficiencies are attracting the attention of project managers pressed to accomplish more work in less time. We can take work here in the states and have changes seen in Singapore almost immediately.
Some users say improved communication both internal and external makes project Web sites worthwhile.
The general public can visit one web site for the latest on traffic conditions and construction schedules, while team members use a different site to exchange detailed design and construction information. Yet with the potential time savings and productivity gains, everyone still isn't on the bandwagon. Education and training appear to be big factors. Getting awareness out is a challenge. Contractors acknowledge that the construction industry often lags in adopting new technology.