Building information modelling as an information management tool: A South African perspective for contractors who take on design responsibility

Measures need to be in place during the construction phase to insure that the final project design adheres to the contract specifications and that the project progress is in line with the contract document and that the resources are managed accordingly. This is where information technology would benefit the project management aspect of construction and provide information integration throughout all facets of construction. Building information modelling is an information technological process that aims to streamline the control of a construction project throughout all the different stages of the project life span. The preliminary investigations suggests that there may be shortcomings on how projects are managed in terms of information, especially with regards to time (scheduling data) and cost, from the initial estimating and budget data. Based on the findings of the investigation, it is explored how implementation of Building Information Modelling, as part of Information Management, can provide more efficient project control within the South African construction industry.