Future Directions for Computerized Construction Research

Abstract

The crucial research needs and most promising directions for future computerized construction applications are the subjects of this article. It is a summary of the events and recommendations derived from a research workshop jointly sponsored by the University of Illinois Construction Engineering and Management Program and the National Science Foundation. The four principal theme areas of this conference were: (1) Project‐wide data base and communication systems; (2) knowledge‐based systems; (3) simulation; and (4) robotics, though many other peripheral issues were also discussed. Fifty leading representatives from industry, government and academia convened in Urbana, Illinois, to develop strategic plans for this research community to pursue over the next 5 to 10 years. Topics discussed included artificial intelligence, supercomputer simulation, autonomous robots, and project data bases that truly integrate design and construction. Though unanimous conclusions were rarely reached, enough consensus support was present to develop a strong, clear strategic plan of computerized construction research and to identify its constituent community. The participants also analyzed techniques for conducting better research studies and injecting more interdisciplinary and interuniversity cooperation into those programs.