Modeling Information Dependencies in Construction Project Network Organizations

Abstract

This ongoing study intends to explore and formalize the information dependency patterns in network forms of organizations in construction project management. In construction projects, information is critical for seamless and cost-effective operations. Communication of project information and coordination of information exchanges between different project participants are essential for a project's success. On the other hand, a better understanding of information dependencies between participants is of utmost importance for strategic choices on information technology (IT) applications since decisions on IT investments greatly influence the effectiveness of not only internal communications within a project team, but also the interactions of the project team with other project-related organizations. In this paper, we provide a case study to highlight the characteristics of information exchanges and dependencies in construction project organizations. We introduce approaches that are wellaccepted by organization theorists in analyzing network organizations and assess their strengths and limitations in modeling information dependencies in construction projects. We focus specifically on dependency structure matrix, social network analysis and computational organization theory since these methodologies have been applied to construction project organizations. These methods, alone, have limitations in supporting decisions on investments regarding IT applications. We conclude with a research roadmap that highlights the research needs for modeling information dependencies within construction project organizations to enable effective IT investments.

Communication Behaviors to Implement Innovations: How Do AEC Teams Communicate in IPD Projects?

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“…The level of information that is transferred among different stakeholders is closely connected with the level of information dependencies among these project players. According to Pekericli et al (2003), there are several aspects that must be considered to ensure the reliability of transferred information and to effectively model the information dependencies between these agents. These aspects include sensitivity, timing, and frequency of communication.…”

Impact of organizational factors on delays in BIM-based coordination from a decision-making view: a case study

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