Digitally-Enabled Design Management

Abstract

Calls for the digital transformation of the construction sector in part revolve around a need for productivity improvements, with a focus upon project time and cost enhancements. The purpose of this work is to provide a state-of-the-art analysis of design management (DM) usually employed to oversee design quality by coordinating design information, typically on behalf of a construction contractor. DM methods, activities, and processes with respect to the potential and underutilisation of building information modelling (BIM) are discussed. A synthesis of recent research efforts is provided identifying further emerging, disruptive, but underutilised digital tools and technologies, which when integrated with BIM, are capable of supporting DM processes. This chapter will aid practitioners and researchers in the design, implementation, and management of digital tools, and provide greater support to the DM function on modern construction projects. It will also be of use to students for a grounding in BIM and BIM-related technologies.