| Construction Engineering and Management experts asserted in the 1980's that computer based Information Communication Technologies (ICT) would grow quickly to increase the efficiency of communications in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Industry. Since that time, many studies have measured the rate of adoption and effectiveness of these tools. Recently, studies have noted that these tools are not being used ubiquitously and have yet to prove effective in increasing the efficiency of inter-company communications. Using the Delphi method with a panel of AEC Industry professionals, this research addresses barriers and facilitators of project-based Project Management Software Systems (PMSS) use, including issues of access to PMSS and how their access would affect the efficiency with which information can be communicated. The results of this research indicate that data re-entry is a common source of inefficiency in the use of PMSS and that future construction ICT developments should focus on a more collaborative, project based implementation model that allows access to the PMSS by all project team members but retain the General Contractor as the manager and controller of the PMSS. These results also indicate that theoretical developments should focus on social considerations for collaboration and the governance of systems in order to realize the full user efficiencies. |
