Mobile multimodal extensions to collaborative Web-based systems

Abstract

The development of leading-edge multimodal (e.g., concurrent text, voice, and video capabilities) mobile applications as a technology that holds promise for the construction industry is described. Because of the complexity of the products, the relatively short execution time frame, and the number of parties involved, the information exchanged throughout an architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) project is extensive. Efficiently managing this information exchange is a significant impediment to increasing the overall productivity of the industry. The technology focus of this paper extends today's tools by addressing one of the unique characteristics of the industry: the need for mobility of real-time information in an integrated and collaborative environment. Mobile computing devices have the capabilities and characteristics for wide use in real-time communication of project information to project repositories or between project participants. As the industry moves away from the desktop and laptop Web paradigms toward the mobile Web paradigm, the availability of real-time complete information exchange with the project information repository presents new opportunities for decision-making in the AEC industry. To facilitate more widespread use of the solution applications described, extensive usability research in light of the various processes in the AEC industry is needed; a preliminary framework for this purpose is presented.Key words: project information management, collaborative information systems, mobile computing, multimodal functionality.