Group D: Uses of Databases in Design Offices

Databases are widely used in Modern CADD and BIM design software. These databases, often called relative databases, utilize information that is stored within several different spreadsheets. Those spreadsheets have information stored from user-inputted values that are then used in later calculations.  The database utilizes those tables. The number of tables in a database can range from 10 to over 1,000. The information in each table column or column can “key on to [and] connect to the information” in other tables [1]. A relational database management system, RDBMS, keeps track of all the data kept in all the columns of every table. This program controls the storage, retrieval, deletion, security and the integrity of the data. The benefit from using a RDBMS system is being able to create specifications from relative databases. From reading Audrey's blog post, SQL, Structural Query Language, is the primary software language used to manage relational databases. SQL was standardized by the American National Standards Institute in 1986.

Traditional construction specifications were word-processed files base, which are now obsolete in comparison relational databases. After reading Michael's blog, I learned that the concept of a relational database originated back in the 1970s. Specifications differences between a word-processed program and a relational database are significant.  The text of each document is regarded as one field in a database that includes other information of various hierarchies and linkages to explanatory notes located in other tables. These links allow related information to be activated, highlighted or suppressed. Using a relational database system also provides the benefit of organizing all specification data into one single output file. This one file can then be adapted and formatted to adjust its appearance and content to provide an outline of short form or full construction specs. 

A relational database management system has other benefits as well. The first is the intelligent linkage of text within and between sections. This multiplies productivity and improves coordination. The modification of key terms, units of measurement, publication dates, etc. are made universally across all project-documented information. Master and project notes are kept separately from specification text. This information can be exposed and concealed when needed. A relational database also enables the ability of tagging text. This function allows for an automated report to be generated without the need to re-open multiple files and search for the information. Page formats and templates for the entire project are established and consistently carried throughout documentation.

Provided the exceptional advantages of relational databases, it is logical to expect the incorporation of RDBMS software in the future within the design process, by improving specifications, cost estimating and graphic building design. To maximize operability, a firm needs to become effective and efficient in using relational databases for successful Building Information Modeling. This is the future “to achieving better quality, greater accuracy, increased efficiency and improved productivity” [1].

Comments:

Micheal Kilgallon's Blog
I enjoyed reading the history of how relational databases were created. Knowing that the concept of relational databases originated back in the 1970s is kinda eye-opening since it is becoming more mainstream now. The handling of large quantities of data provide substantial benefits to design offices.

Audrey Ryan's Blog
I found SQL quite interesting because of its development over the years. I also had no idea that SQL is the most popular software language for relational database models. I was aware of management systems, but of not any particular language used within the database.

Brian Benson's Blog
I found your blog post quite interesting. The functionality of SEED appears to be similar in purpose, but different in execution for relational databases. Im curious on how SEED was conceived and developed.

Source:

[1]: "BIM Interoperability and Relational Databases." Continuing Education. Building    Systems Design, Inc., n.d. Web. 8 Feb. 2014. <http://continuingeducation.construction.com/crs.php?L=12&C=838>.