Previous Issues

Department of Civil Engineering, Kuwait University, P. 0. Box 5969, Safat, 13060 Kuwait Fax (965) 481 7524, e-mail: kartam@kuc01.kuniv.edu.kw

ABSTRACT

Expert knowledge and lessons learned in the construction phase of a project are not systematically incorporated into the design and construction phases of subsequent projects. Experience gained from past mistakes as well as efficient work practices are crucial means for saving money and time, improving the safety and quality of construction. The Management Information System for Construction (MISC) is an interactive on-line database system that is used for the classification, entering, storage, retrieval, documentation, and analysis of con- struction information emerging on the job site. This paper describes the development and implementation of this system. The applications of MISC are developed using Lotus Notes software under the Microsoft Windows operating environment. The objective of the system is to improve quality, raise productivity, promote efficiency, and reduce costs for contractors. The concept of MISC is applicable to almost every kind of information on the job site. Two types of information are presented in this paper: (1) a Daily Field Report to demonstrate automating data entry and retrieval on construction sites, and (2) a Lessons-Learned Library to illustrate constructability-knowledge feedback. Ultimately, it is anticipated that MISC will create a paperless working environment and provide an information-intensive database to support timely decision-making at the job site.

Keywords: Constructability; Construction management; Lessons learned