ABSTRACT
The plan was that, during the first year, the engineers would be working on the technology and developing their plans, while the social scientists would be familiarizing themselves with the construction industry and with the partner firms. It seems that the very nature of contracting in the construction industry has to be addressed if real improvements are to be made. Any sustained attempt to get close and stay close to clients or suppliers broadens the interaction beyond formal contracting. The computer-based three-dimensional presentation of buildings had been in practice for some time, mainly for marketing purposes, allowing potential clients and others to "walk through" a building, to experience the building to some extent, and to suggest and try out changes. Some clients are beginning to use sophisticated techniques, derived from manufacturing industry, to place increasing pressure on their contractors to reduce cost, speed construction, improve quality and manage buildings throughout their life-cycle.
