Electronic commerce in construction—trends and prospects

There is growing interest in the conduct of business transactions by electronic means through the Internet and/or dedicated networks; this is often referred to as electronic commerce. This paper reviews developments in electronic commerce, with a particular focus on its applicability and uptake within the construction industry. Electronic commerce business models are reviewed and the enablers and barriers to their uptake in the construction sector presented. The paper concludes with future trends in electronic commerce and the need for construction organisations to make the necessary investments that will enable them to take advantage of these.