Decision support systems for construction and automation of project management techniques

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The proposed research program aims at advancing the research results and developments achieved during the term of the current discovery grant in the area of automation and decision support systems for construction industry. The research program aims at the development of: 1) automated information-technology based construction management techniques and decision support systems for optimized delivery of building projects and facilities. 2) intelligent systems and methods for sustainable infrastructure systems. In the area of automated decision support systems the focus will primarily be on the development of construction engineering and management tools, methods and support systems using intelligent systems, wireless communication and web technologies for data and knowledge processing with a focus on improving productivity of the Canadian Construction Industry. This include developing a dynamic material takeoff and cost estimation using 3D-Virtual and web environment, maintenance and rehabilitation plans for buildings and lifecycle analysis and costing for sustainable buildings. In the area of sustainable infrastructure the focus will primarily be on developing intelligent systems for maintenance and rehabilitation plans for bridges. The deterioration of bridges has become a major safety and economic concern. One of the major factors causing this problem comes from the unreliable data gathered during the inspection and monitoring of the infrastructure. Eventually, the maintenance and rehabilitation decisions based on this information and data are not as reliable and competitive. It shows that there is a dire need to introduce and test a methodology to evaluate the reliability of data collected through inspections and wireless communication techniques, and to develop intelligent decision support systems to assist in planning and budgeting the maintenance and rehabilitation of the infra-structure based on its lifecycle cost. The proposed research program, accordingly, contributes to efforts being made to improve construction productivity, as well improve public safety and economic well being. The proposed program will also contribute in training of highly qualified personnel in vital sectors of Canadian economy.