Computer Integration: Reducing Fragmentation in AEC Industry

Abstract

Emerging and existing computer technologies can be synthesized in ways that provide new kinds of decision support for integrating the data, design decisions, and knowledge normally dispersed among the many participants in the architecture/engineering/construction (AEC) process. This paper briefly examines the origins and impacts of fragmentation in the industry in the U.S. and describes six thrust areas where computer‐integrated design and construction can substantially improve the competitiveness of the U.S. AEC industry and the quality of its products. In each of these thrust areas, AEC problems pose important challenges to developing technologies for artificial intelligence, graphic and nongraphic databases, process automation and robotics, and management and dissemination of technology. The application of these advanced computer technologies and the AEC industry offers the promise of significant gains in productivity and will infuse new excitement into civil engineering education and practice.