Visual information transfer using mobile IT solutions

The ongoing launches of mobile data services, represented by third generation mobile communications, wireless LANs and other technologies are increasingly attracting the attention of academics and practitioners in construction. Sharing information is critical for the success of construction projects. Construction industry has been increasingly recognizing the need for more effective exchange of information between project participants but organizational and technical barriers reduce the timeliness and accuracy of information [1]. The benefits of collaborative working within the AEC industry are now being recognised, with project teams being actively encouraged to work together more closely and to exchange project information [2,3].

Computing and networking technologies have good potential to advance communication and collaboration and to help improve personal, organizational and interpersonal/organizational effectiveness and efficiency [4]. Advances in information technology offer opportunities for both mobility and visualisation purposes in construction.

Mobile computing and wireless networking experienced a revolution over the last years, and many sectors now use mobile technologies and wireless links. Similar to the mobile industry, new developments in information technology enhanced the visualisation capabilities offered by applications. Traditional methods are increasingly incapable of providing fast and effective communication and in most cases modern networking and telecommunications have greatly increased the amount but not the quality of information. Visualization is one of the major technology themes identified to achieve improvement in the construction process since it is a means of communication providing an instant communication together with a considerable depth of information. Visualisation is now considered as a communication method rather than a tool since it allows reduction in information overload.

This research paper presents the results of an extensive literature survey on mobile communications and visualisation in construction and investigates the possibility of a communication system benefiting from these two technologies for the construction sector. It is aimed at managing data transfer, especially visual data through the use of mobile technologies in construction sector.

Three infrastructure scenarios to achieve mobile communication for visual information transfer are developed in this paper. The visualisation tools that can be used in different scenarios are also explained. There are many potential benefits to be extracted through the implementation of the constructed communication model: the main benefit will be better communication and collaboration throughout the construction process.