Week 6 - Uses of databases in construction firms

Database could help identify construction firms within various localities. Database applications or software helps the constructions firms to keep track of their work process in much easier way. However, using excel spreadsheets or paper to document or track the project is too limited and time consuming. Also, Paper records cannot measure up to the capabilities of these databases. Using database not only faster, but also the can put all of the project’s documents and data in a good organized way to use. There are different kinds and brands of databases applications worldwide, and they all share the same function of tracking and documenting the work process.

Database applications also help in tracking the parts and materials that have been ordered for a project. Many of the constructions firms nowadays using handheld database application to help track the materials and parts that needed for the project. Their materials supervisors are using this handheld PC database application to carry around the whole project inventory. Each items should has a barcode that is linked to a central database that provides all of the necessary information for each item. The application allows the constructions firms to track its location, check its conditions, its arrival date and time, and all of other details.

In case of a large constructions firm, database applications are really important as well. Since they mostly mange subcontractors, using database application could help them to mange the subcontractors faster and easier. The reason behind this is that when the subcontractors request or pick up materials from the storage yards, delays in processing paper records or insufficient tracking meant that items had a tendency to become lost or misplaced. Therefore, using database to keep tracks for each item solved the problem for constructions firms.

In addition, Database applications can help to determine how a work stage depends on one another, which helps constructions firms figuring out solutions when something goes wrong. This will helps the constructions firms on track and budget.

Last, projects produce a large amount of information that can be complex and depend on different factors. Managing this information effectively and assures its availability and accuracy is an important task for constructions firms. This prevents any delays on the project, and insures that the project is making a good progress.

Comments:

Comment on Mike Wright’s post:

Great post Mike, I like they way you organized your post starting by giving a background and history about SQL. I had no idea what SQL before, but no I know. It’s amazing how it’s developed through the years. SQL will really helps in the industries since it allows the users (construction firms) to controls the collected data easily and more faster and accurate way.

Comment on Yoon’s post:

Yoon I totally agrees with what you said about that computer database has became the main source of power to all source of complicated work. I like the way you covered your topic. Comparing OODE with the traditional database is a good idea to shows how nowadays can save time and give a lot of details about an item as the example you stated of the retail store. Well done.

Comment on Dongyan Qi’s post:

I think the uses of database on design offices are as important as in construction firms. I agree with you on that for sure it became a great and important tool for both design and construction firms since  as you stated  more than one group of engineering can share the data and work on the same project on the same.

References : 


"Handheld Database Applications Solve Large Construction Problems." Handheld Database Applications Solve Large Construction Problems. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Feb. 2014.
"14. Organization and Use of Project Information." Project Management for Construction: Organization and Use of Project Information. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Feb. 2014.