Collaborative Working in Construction (Electronic book text)

Complications arising from poor collaboration are the source of a variety of the construction industry's biggest problems. It is now widely recognized that an effective collaboration strategy based on the implementation of information systems and careful consideration of the wider organizational issues is key to delivering construction projects successfully. Against a backdrop of rapidly developing communication techologies, and continuing efforts to improve working practices, this book provides clear explanations of how to successfully devise and implement a collaboration strategy. The concepts introduced include: collaborative working as a holistic concept in construction a new framework on how to plan and implement effective collaboration change management approaches for introducing collaborative working systems, and implementing new technologies in construction projects. Examinations of emerging technologies like mobile and wireless are combined with overviews of relevant management theories, and industry case studies, to provide a comprehensive guide suitable for both practitioners and students. Underpinned by research carried out by leading academics in co-operation with practitioners using the latest technologies, this is the most up-to-date and relevant guide to this crucial subject available. This is essential reading for all practioners and serious students of management in the built environment.