Computer-Integrated Building Design

Computer-Integrated Building Design concerns the needs and requirements of team members for sharing knowledge and data across and within the traditional phases of a building project using CAD-related tools and techniques. To be effective, it requires appropriate supporting procurment and management approaches as well as new attitudes by all those involved in the building process. The tools and techniques must support the way various team members need to communicate and exchange information as the building design evolves. For greater efficiency, the graphical and non-graphical information need to be processed in parallel and such a process requires a new form of project management. The author describes current research, development and application of CAD-related tools and techniques to the building design process and demonstrates the methods necessary to achieve knowledge-sharing in building design. Through the use of a simulated real-life project the author demonstrates clearly how CAD-related tools support this integrated approach. Architects and construction professionals will find this a valuable guide to the computer tools and techniques which can assist them in managing building projects more efficiently.