A requirements engineering framework for integrated systems development for the construction industry

Computer Integrated Construction (CIC) systems are computer environments through whichcollaborative working can be undertaken. Although many CIC systems have been developed to demonstrate thecommunication and collaboration within the construction projects, the uptake of CICs by the industry is stillinadequate. This is mainly due to the fact that research methodologies of the CIC development projects areincomplete to bridge the technology transfer gap. Therefore, defining comprehensive methodologies for thedevelopment of these systems and their effective implementation on real construction projects is vital.Requirements Engineering (RE) can contribute to the effective uptake of these systems because it drives thesystems development for the targeted audience. This paper proposes a requirements engineering approach forindustry driven CIC systems development. While some CIC systems are investigated to build a broad and deepcontextual knowledge in the area, the EU funded research project, DIVERCITY (Distributed Virtual Workspacefor Enhancing Communication within the Construction Industry), is analysed as the main case study projectbecause its requirements engineering approach has the potential to determine a framework for the adaptation ofrequirements engineering in order to contribute towards the uptake of CIC systems