Utilization of microcomputers in the construction industry

Mir, Saif U. (1985) Utilization of microcomputers in the construction industry. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The use of computers in the construction industry is increasing but the extent and the rate of the growth is minimal considering the availability of this technology. In an effort to determine the extent to which computers are utilized in the construction industry, a survey was conducted among construction contractors in Atlantic Canada. -- Construction contractors responding to the 1985 computer utilization questionnaire who were using computers indicated that they were generally well satisfied with commercially available software that perform general accounting functions, such as, accounts payable/receivable, job cost, general ledger, and payroll. Most were not, however, utilizing their computers for tasks that require a great degree of user programming skill. Nor were they using the commercially available software outside the accounting area because of the non-compatibility of the software with their in-house procedures. -- Among the contractors who did not use computers, it was found that the non-use of computers was mainly due to the contractor's lack of knowledge of computer systems, both hardware and software. There was also a general misconception about the high cost of computerization. -- In order to expand the use of computers in the construction industry, a data processing system has been developed, which is expected to solve many of the problems of extending computer use outside the traditional accounting areas. The suggested system makes use of an integrated software package developed for the microcomputer. Integrated software packages offer computer capability with a minimum amount of effort on the part of the users. The data processing system is demonstrated by modelling real life construction related tasks such as specifications, estimating, forecasting, design, bidding, cash flow analysis, project control, equipment replacement, and owning & operating cost calculations. -- To facilitate increased use of computer technology in the construction industry, criteria for the selection of computer systems are presented. The criteria describe the characteristics of and selection procedures for both hardware and software commonly used in the construction industry. The criteria also outline the pre-implementation procedures and make specific recommendations for computerization. -- It is expected that the suggested data processing system and the guidelines for the selection of a microprocessor-based computer system will enhance computer utilization in the construction industry, especially in small construction firms.

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