Content area
Abstract
This research explores the concept of context-aware services delivery in the construction supply chain. It demonstrates how a combination of context-awareness and Web Services can be used to facilitate supply chain interactions. Investigation into the magnitude of which technology is being used in construction is the first step in determining if the construction industry is ready to adopt new technology. Next, the investigation into current practices of construction supply chain management involves case studies of live construction projects. Interviews to learn from site managers of the approaches in addressing problems encountered in construction project result in the development of a proposed business model aimed at promoting the use of ICT and automation. Based on this model, scenario plots illustrating the application of a context-aware system are created using Scenario Planning Method and presented to construction experts for validation. Contexts are classified and modelled using Activity Theory tool with the outcome of database schemas. The architecture framework of the proposed service-oriented context-aware application is developed using Context Toolkit integrated with WASP technology. Finally, a conceptual prototype is developed and demonstrated to construction experts for evaluation. This research reveals that many construction sites still manage their supply chain services manually or utilise low-level ICT. Construction experts have indicated that the proposed automation system has great potential to support supply chain management integration, enhance the visibility of assets mobility and improve construction planning.