Enabling Technologies in Integrating Design and Construction

This paper focuses on the role of the IT tools that have enabled the development of a decision support system, the Integrated Design System (IDS). The IDS facilitates the derivation of production related designs for structural steelwork, by integrating the information flow from each of the existing processes. It will enable the designer to investigate the effects of conceptual decisions on fabrication, transportation, and erection costs, and assess the constructability of designs, providing advice on feasible and economic alternatives. This has beneficial implications for the overall economy and constructability of the finished design