Construction Practice and Information Technology - Coursework Example

Impact of Mobile and Wireless Communications on Construction Industry Presented By Table of Contents Introduction 3 Evolution of Mobile and Wireless Computing 4 Importance of Mobile and Wireless Computing 6 Mobile and Wireless Computing for Construction Industry 8 Production Area 8 Design Aspects 8 Networking Associates 9 Combined Advancement 9 Major Force for Making Transformation 9 Scope of Electronic Support for Construction Industry 11 The implementation of wireless infrastructure in construction Sector 12 Mobile Computing Applications for Construction Projects 17 Conclusion 18 References 19 Introduction The construction sector is deeply dependent on communication, the reason behind is that it involves a wide variety of internal and external business stakeholders. It is the fact that project communication is becoming more difficult nowadays because it contains distribution of huge data and information from one place to another which is the essential part of this kind of business. Flexibility of staffs has always been essential in the construction businesses with respect to place and time. In this scenario, information and communication technology (ICT) helped in shaping this kind of society by providing excellent communication gadgets such as mobile and wireless devices that benefit every individual for promoting or monitoring their business. People are becoming more independent that yield the independence of mobility for members involved in the construction market and business. Without a doubt, mobile technology and wireless connectivity can be integrated with the construction places to make sure the effective transmission of instantaneous data and information all the way through corporate operations (Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Garza & Howitt, 1998). Additionally, the research has shown that people working in the construction sector are not fully conceiving advantages of wireless and mobile computing. In fact, they have not approved and accepted the integration of this these technologies with their work tasks. That is why technology does not seem to be at a particular place in the field of construction sector. It is an admitted fact that wireless computing is very much advantageous if it is implemented and used effectively. There are many examples of wireless technology that have been proved to be an excellent source of success such as location aware computing. In addition, these successful examples have proven success and usefulness of mobile and wireless technologies particularly for the construction sector. In fact, in many cases, mobile and wireless computing has received great appreciation and provided a marvelous return on investment within a few months of its implementation (May et al., 2005). Moreover, in the past few years the users of mobile and wireless computing have increased to a greater extent. In fact, the majority of business organizations have started carrying out their business tasks by using wireless and mobile computing. In addition, the implementation of mobile and wireless technology allows them to immediately interact with consumers, rapidly share data, minimize paperwork and rework. In this scenario, mobility has facilitated them to resolve problems remotely. The uses of database supported through wireless technology have decreased the maintenance of filing system which has increased the efficiency and authenticity, improved quality and services which resulted in a reduction in the operational cost (Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Garza & Howitt, 1998). In this paper, my focus will be on determining the impact of mobile and wireless computing on construction businesses, along with the different aspects of technology being used in the society. The basic objective of this research is to explore the positive effects of this modern technology and its impact on the construction industry. I will cover the entire market to figure out all the pros and cons of mobile technology and wireless computing. Evolution of Mobile and Wireless Computing The theories and the concepts of mobile computing are vital to understand before starting any discussion. History tells us about the development of computer networking which was started in the middle of the 1970s which had offered an excellent support for the development of mobile and wireless computing technology. The developers of this technology have actually adopted the concept of distributed computing which allowed a large number of people to be connected with each other. It allowed the people to share their stuff with each other. By this method problems can be solved easily. The server can easily monitor all the members remotely. Clients were able to easily share data and information to the authorities. It is more secure to be integrated with technology as it has domains which cannot be shared with everyone but to the particular level that has any association with it. Furthermore, with the rapid development in this field of technology and the development of new techs such as laptops and mobiles that highly supports wireless computing required the computer experts to launch and design the new networks to overcome and fulfill all the requirements which may lack in future. It is highly expected that in future technologies will turn out to be more efficient and authentic, and businesses (especially construction sector) would highly depend on these technologies. However, there are many challenges and limitations for the developers in mobile and wireless computing to figure out all kinds of requirements and to come up with a technology that will be fully up to the mark (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Turban et al, 2005; Chen & Kamara, 2005). Some of these issues and limitations can include local computations and processing resources that appear due to the restrictions and limitations of weight and size, security concerns, power utilizations and the variety of connectional dependability and efficiency. Additionally, it can be clearly observed from the previous literature and researches that mobile and wireless computing is still under process of development, which further expands into other areas such as mobile networking, data and information access, adaptive applications, system level saving energy methods and location sensitivity (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Turban et al, 2005; Chen & Kamara, 2005). One of the attractive concepts regarding computing was presented by Weiser in 1991, by saying that “the most intense technologies are those that be wiped out”. The computing was developed to allow all the users to be connected remotely, in order to make sure that all the users are provided with perfect access to technology based computing whenever they have need of it. (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Turban et al, 2005; Chen & Kamara, 2005). Importance of Mobile and Wireless Computing Throughout the world, mobile computing is becoming more and more popular. In fact, it has been adopted and appreciated internationally, in this scenario, users of this technology do require a certain range of frequency to transfer data from one location to another. In view of the fact that mobile and wireless technology makes use of waves (known as microwaves) to transmit data and information, so these waves are responsible for allowing and managing the channel between computers. Without a doubt, mobile and wireless technology offers a large number of advantages for all kinds of businesses. However, some of the common and well-known advantages of this technology are: (Broadband, 2011; Malladi & Agrawal, 2002; Mitchell, 2011) It allows an easy way of sharing of important data and information between systems Facilitates with mobility Eliminating the need for cables and wires Protected environment Data confidentiality In the past few years a large number of researchers in their research papers (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Koseoolu, 2004; Kim et al., 2011; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Dima, 2010) have discussed about mobile and wireless computing and its advantages. They have given the great work to the new researchers. Their view is to minimize the workload with a high rate of efficiency. In view of the fact that the business environment and working teams in a construction project or distributed business environment requires a high level of communication for all kinds of collaborative tasks hence, a collaborative model named as “mobile collaboration” has been developed. Actually, this collaboration model allows project teams to get connected using mobile and wireless technologies at anytime and at anyplace. Their researches also show that the use of communication tools supported by wireless technology improves the efficiency of working teams and improving the communication capabilities (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Koseoolu, 2004; Kim et al., 2011; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Dima, 2010). Additionally, the technological advancements are always necessary for businesses and organizations which are in search of new advancements for providing their consumers and employees a proactive prospect to communicate anytime and anywhere in association with remote performance. It is an admitted fact that wireless technology is designed to synchronize with real time data in an efficient manner as opposed to traditional manner. Furthermore with the advancement in mobile and wireless computing various communication services have evolved which are discovering several business arenas to step in. Whereas the modern procedures and plans have modernized the prevailing business operations (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Koseoolu, 2004; Kim et al., 2011; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Dima, 2010). Moreover, a construction project involves a wide variety of stakeholders such as such as designers or design firms, architects, contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and suppliers and they are greatly concerned with the tasks being performed throughout the project. The research has shown that mobile computing is very much helpful in minimizing the work time with the greater towards efficiency. In this scenario, mobile and wireless technology can improve the speed and quality of communication among project stakeholders located at different locations. It also ensures the reliability of data and information with authenticity along with accuracy that is being transferred from one location to another. It is very much helpful in detecting and dealing with problems easily, it helps project stakeholders to do all the work easily. Researchers had given the great contribution by developing such kind of technology which helps the humanity a lot in their everyday life (Garza &Howitt, 1998; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Koseoolu, 2004; Kim et al., 2011; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Dima, 2010). Mobile and Wireless Computing for Construction Industry Mobile computing devices and smart gadgets of various different kinds can be seen all around in the world of today because they have started to play a significant role in business management and collaborative activities. With regards to the construction industry, the world of mobile computing provides a wide number of advantages and services. Listed below are a few essential advantages that mobile and wireless computing has for the construction industries (Hore, 2006): Production Area Mobile and wireless computing is designed by keeping in view the physical foundation of an unshared set of requirements of a person who is using mobile. In this scenario, mobile utilities are designed to comply with the requirements of a construction environment (Hore, 2006) Design Aspects Mobile and wireless computing set up the industry standard for maintaining and nursing all kinds of actions and operations which can be utilized in a construction region to focus on more portability of communication and association (Hore, 2006) Networking Associates Mobile and wireless computing also propose a magnificent, complex and detailed support for maintaining relationships with all kinds of project stakeholder with detailed primary construction software’s that are obtainable to vendors and work colleagues in addition to the staff of the construction partner networks (Hore, 2006) Combined Advancement Mobile and wireless computing also enable substantial care for efficient database and network access to the staff involved in construction. This feature allows in ascertaining a smoother workflow and helps a construction association to adequately give or exchange information with their staff management and associates to effectively increase and support the construction administration requirements that they need (Hore, 2006). Major Force for Making Transformation In their article (Hore, 2006) discusses in detail the differences between the construction industry and other businesses. According to their viewpoint, the construction industry is different from other industries such as retail and manufacturing for the reason that the operations and activities of other industries and well-organized and established. From another point of view, the tentative environment, nature and different qualities of construction projects are copied in design solutions limited to a single time and these off locations and singular project groups categorically oversee the results of an extremely disintegrated communication policy. In addition, diverse needs and requirements of collaboration and communication between teams and staff members involved in a construction project can be seen in figure 1. Adding to that, the conditions of construction projects need thorough cooperation and communication with the purpose that general corporate performance and integrity could be improved (Kim et al., 2011; Hore, 2006). Figure 1Implementation of mobile computing in a construction project, Image Source: (Hore, 2006). Figure 2 depicts another solution to show the implementation of mobile and wireless computing in another construction project. This image shows that how information is distributed among various stakeholders. However, in figure 2 there is a central communication link which supports and maintains the entire communication process. This in turn guide towards a better operating environment for an enhanced business performance. Figure 2Another example to show the implementation of mobile computing in a construction project, Image Source, (Hore, 2006) Scope of Electronic Support for Construction Industry Currently, the trend of implementing the most up to date ICT supported tools and applications in the construction sector are rapidly grown in many countries across the planet. And it is because of the positive implementations of these tools and technologies that the adaptability and efficiency of various areas and operations inside the construction paradigms have greatly improved. Similarly, effective electronic distribution of corporate data and information ensure the ability to greatly improve the association, collaboration and communication throughout a construction project via (Kim et al., 2011; Hore, 2006) In this case, the effective implementation of information and communication tools also accommodates the entire construction project from start to the functional defense of the formulating asset of a company. Moreover, the procedure of a project model that assists the improved organization and supervision of business data and information all through a projects development life cycle has gained a widespread reputation. ICT is growing the positive abilities of precise areas and features of construction businesses all over the world. In this case, figure 3 shows the appliance of existing ICT support all across the construction project lifespan. Besides this, the figure shows a number of areas that must be addressed properly while employing technology based grounds of system from a construction project (Kim et al., 2011; Hore, 2006). Figure 3 how electronic communication supports construction projects, Image Source: (Hore, 2006) The implementation of wireless infrastructure in construction Sector Considering a specific business environment working in association is a procedure for participating with several individuals and organization for ascertaining the required results. In reality, the partnership illustrates a process of value configuration that expected communication and teamwork association cannot particularly be attained. In this situation the electric alliance is the communication of project and project team where the communication for as association plans and project deliverance are defined after consultation from project team members. All this is incorporated in a virtual real time environment (Jadid & Idress, 2005; Garza & Howitt, 1998). Additionally, the complete association is defined with technologies which are obtainable in the industry nowadays. This all relies on the internet, local area networks, extranet combined with intranet and wireless and mobile networking. Keeping this in view the construction projects incorporate a substantial number of stakeholders and associated resources hence effectual association and communication involves a noteworthy role in controlling the information and the concerned business operations. The construction and development working location is the vital area where wealth is ascertained or lost throughout the appropriate establishment of collaborative technology systems and aspects. Hence, with latest ICT tools and applications there is an imperative opportunity for improving aptitude, competence and excellence and routine (Jadid & Idress, 2005; Garza & Howitt, 1998). Figure 4 is portraying the complete network collection associated with mobile computing technology, which is deployed at a construction site. In this particular scenario a wide variety of technological systems are combined for work procedures which are communicating with each other for improving performance and quality of the project. In addition, this arrangement is formed using a variety of communication tools and channels which are designed for inter and intra communication in construction projects (Garza & Howitt, 1998). Figure 4Implementation of a Wireless Network, Image Source: (Garza & Howitt, 1998) In addition, the technology of mobile computing has become extremely common in current situation especially for facilitating the project personnel working in a particular construction site. Nonetheless the execution and adoption by the construction industry is still very less and confined. The real reason for such limited implementation is the prevailing customary structure of the construction industry. In reality the actual benefits can be ascertained when the concerning associates are involved and combined in a construction project and fulfill each other’s requirement effectively (Hore, 2006; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Jadid & Idress, 2005; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005). Moreover, the tasks involved in a construction project can be made more effortless and easy with the insertion of real time wireless technology, similar to other business areas. In addition, the implementation of wireless connectivity in-site incorporation with the required handled devices which will reduce problem solving and decision making abilities will become fast as the time required for personal meeting will be reduced and saved consequently. Additionally, the dull paperwork can easily be reduced through the integration of mobility and the latest devices in the areas of construction site and the information exchanged between these sites can be documented in a precise and organized manner. This whole process will allow administration to make use of helpful onsite information in a time efficient manner which also invokes staff’s personal skills and creativity (Hore, 2006; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Jadid & Idress, 2005; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005): Determine on site problems associated with the project credentials Transmission of electronic information and data to a different construction site or central business administration office through wireless connectivity Provide competence of immediate decision making and virtual meetings Synchronized accessibility of data, video, audio sharing and timely transmission on construction sites Document organizational field data on a cell phone device like that iPod, iPad, Pocket PC and Smartphone. Instantaneous access to the organization or project related data and information Additionally, the effective use and implementation of wireless computing solutions offer a large number of advantages to the construction sector. Some of the important advantages are (Hore, 2006; Chen & Kamara, 2008; Jadid & Idress, 2005; Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005): Provide an excellent support for the management of material and equipment on construction sites Support for describing design problems Provide an excellent support for management of a wide variety of project documents Provide mechanisms for quality assurance and control on construction sites Ensure availability and accessibility of digital documentation on site Effective resource distribution, monitoring and control for the improved construction site management Provide mechanisms for workers’ health and security at construction sites Management and maintenance of cost and schedule of construction business Additionally, at the present construction sector is loaded with a range of applications and systems designed for projects. These systems require the implementation of wireless communication and mobile computing on site. In addition, the implementation of mobile and wireless computing allows construction firms to achieve a suitable return on investment. On the other hand, it is essential for the construction firms that they estimate the expenditures for these implementations earlier than the estimation of business benefits. Moreover, the construction sector involves two kinds of expenditures: direct expenditures and indirect expenditures. In this scenario, direct expenditures consist of costs associated with hardware, software, fees for technology service providers and maintenance and configuration and installation. On the other hand, indirect expenditures consist of the costs associated with employees’ training, motivation, salaries of technicians and engineers and salary changes in technology based support (Koseoglu & Nielsen, 2005; Jadid & Idress, 2005; Hore, 2006; Chen & Kamara, 2008). Mobile Computing Applications for Construction Projects The introduction of mobility in the construction industry has laid the foundation of utilizing novel mobile technologies which can further provide assistance. In this particular situation several communication service suppliers have started working for discovering different business areas for entering this competition. Additionally mobile computing is considered as a productive tool for improving on site activities. Previously several business giants immensely invested in technological processes with the intention of attaining support for their business processes. Moreover, it is clear that mobile and wireless computing procedures provide the ability to synchronize with real time data in an appropriate manner. Presently mobile computing and wireless data transfer technologies can easily be divided based on their ranges available: (Jadid & Idress, 2005; Koseoolu, 2004) Wide Range: This range is suitable for UMTS and GPRS technologies Short Range: This is effective for Bluetooth and WLAN technologies Currently, there are a large number of mobile computing applications that can be utilized for useful administration of construction projects and firms. In this scenario, a report with the heading of “Construct IT Bridging the Gap” demonstrates that at the present a large number of construction firms use latest ICT applications in the development and management of the majority of construction projects. In view of the fact that these applications are powerful in design and analysis hence the implementations of these applications have allowed organizations to resolve a wide variety of issues. Additionally, as per CICA (Construction Industry Computing Association) present in the UK, almost 1600 software tools and applications from more than 500 technology providers are developed for utilization in structure, design and architecture, and preservation of shops and construction vicinity. In addition, such applications can be separated into diverse categories. These groups can be: (Hore, 2006) Computer aided analysis, design and visualization Computer based applications for budget estimation General tools for the management of business information Computer based applications for planning, scheduling and site management Tools for the development and management of civil engineering projects and their artifacts Computer supported facilities management Conclusion This research paper has presented a clear and concise analysis of mobile computing and its utilization in the construction industry. The research has shown that the construction sector involves a wide variety of multi-organizational activities, which are based on internal and external activities. In this scenario, internal activities require communication with internal stakeholders while external activities require regular communication with external stakeholders. In the past few years, there have been massive developments in the construction sector and project communication has transformed into a complex system and rapid transfer of data and information has become essential from the project operational and performance point of view. Presently the majority of construction businesses involve flexibility for their staff about place and time. In this particular situation information and communication technology (ICT) and its related products which include mobile and wireless computing provide the independence of mobility to associates in the construction business and its related industry. In addition, the wireless connectivity and mobile technologies can be incorporated in construction sites in an effort to make certain that real-time data can easily be transferred all through the business tasks. In view of the reality that a construction project includes a number of stakeholders and team members working at different locations, need for frequent communication in this scenario the use of mobile computing facilitates them to establish a communication link from any location which can be accessed anytime. Hence, effective implementation and use of this mobile and wireless technology can increase the productivity of the construction projects and firms. References Broadband, 2011. Wireless broadband, Wireless Networking, Wi-Fi, whats what? [Online] Available at: http://www.broadband.co.uk/guides/wireless-broadband/ [Accessed 04 March 2013]. Chen, Y. & Kamara, J.M., 2005. The Use of Mobile Computing in Construction Information Management. 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