Thesis-1999-Mead.pdf (8.12 MB)
Communication effectiveness in intranet based construction projects
thesis
posted on 2012-12-13, 11:49 authored by Stephen P. MeadToday, the advent of information technologies (IT) is changing the way the world
communicates. The growth of internet related technologies provides building organizations with
low-cost tools that can optimize project communications. In particular, the recent development
of project specific "intranets", can enhance project communication by giving all members of the
project team access to a common, centralized database of construction information.
This study looked at the effect of project specific intranet systems on the
communications of the project team. More specifically, the study analyzed several
communication variables including timeliness, completeness, understanding, barriers, speed and
procedures. Additionally, graphic models were developed to help describe the intranet's role in
the project communication network.. The methodology triangulated three data collection
methods to measure variables on three case studies. This triangulation included the comparison
of information benchmarks, an examination of communication effectiveness, and the use of
social network analysis.
The study found that when used properly, project specific intranet systems act as a key
actor in a project communication network. Intranets also have a positive effect on the timeliness
and understanding of project information, and their use can improve the speed with which
information is transferred between project players. On the negative side, intranet use seems to
contribute to the information overload of project participants.
But the success of the project intranet is largely a function of project participation. For
positive results several key players need to use the system on a regular basis. These key players
include the architect, the project manager, the site superintendent and key office engineers.
When one of these primary players refuses to participate, then the system quickly loses its
effectiveness.
History
School
- Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering
Publisher
© Stephen Patrick MeadPublication date
1999Notes
A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough University.Language
- en