Information technology in structural design - a literature review and a call for practical deployment

Abstract

Civil engineering informatics treats technologies, methodologies, models and processes for the application of information systems in civil engineering. The basic technology is provided by computer science and computer industry. It comprises operating systems for computers and networks, programming platforms, standard application tools, and standard communication tools. The methodologies, models and the processes as well as the advanced software technologies are to a large extent specific to civil engineering informatics. This paper starts with an overview on general applications of IT in civil engineering and follows with some more specific application in building industry such as: virtual buildings, CAD systems and collaborative design. IT proves to be beneficial for it has the potential to enhance project communication and eliminate sources of expensive errors and conflicts, resulting in efficiency and productivity. However, the building industry has been reluctant to adopt the technology. This paper seeks to stake out the reasons that hinder the adaptation of this technology in Iran and thereby suggests the methodology leading to a localized solution.