ABSTRACT
Experience shows that transcription errors are extremely easy to introduce so there must be some rigorous checking of data transcriptions. Some survey systems are based on direct computer data entry on site into the survey software via hand-held or laptop computers, possibly including data entry via printed barcodes. For IT literate surveyors, however, it is not too difficult to write a suitable Microsoft Access database for a register. Surveyors should evaluate survey software critically. One commercial package which has been used is 'Archibus', in a very complex multi-building site and across a number of sites throughout the UK. The choice of report format will be governed by the need to update registers as ACMs are removed or repaired. One advantage of the computer-based systems is that an audit trail can be built in to check that a contractor has accessed the register to obtain the relevant information he needs.
