B5 - Singh, Prahlad

Database systems play an important role in almost all parts of building design/construction industry. Databases have made it easier for designers and engineers to have direct access to the information that would help with multiple processes such as cost estimation, energy modelling, and etc. Direct benefits are noted in the reduction of construction costs. This is done with the application of computer analysis to the different forms of data compiled about the project. Specifically, in regard to construction, the biggest benefits come from rooting out scheduling conflicts. Databases in construction firms that are being used presently are mainly for their cost and scheduling purposes.

Database can be used when estimating the price per square foot of a specific type of building/residence. The database uses information and standards for different jobs and shows an average price that can be used to calculate how much your project would cost.

The biggest benefit of having database in construction is having a spreadsheet of all the materials and the schedule, this would be beneficial because the contractor or the project manager can keep track of the materials that arrived on the site and how much of it got used or how much got wasted. If utilized properly this could also aid the manager in ordering materials accordingly to reduce storage costs and wastage. Also, these systems will also allow for contractors to communicate intelligently with designers and other engineers in real-time instead of requesting a meeting to discuss the issues at length. Now changes or mark-ups can be made on models that are representative of the current progress of construction. These changes can be seen by designers and corresponding engineering teams that can make much more intelligent decisions about the design without the constraint of time and commuting.

By allowing many different individuals access to this information, including laborers, a greater understanding of the work can be attained as well as a greater level of analysis.

Comments to Others

Ronald: Your post was very informational. Prior to this I had no knowledge on the Relational Databases. The images were especially informative. SQL sounds very interesting and I would particularly like to understand them better.

Maria: After reading Ronald’s post I was particularly interested in SQL, your post gave me a better understanding regarding the topic. The example you provided really helped with the understanding of the language and its connectivity with data

Maissoun: Again, like the others your images and examples were particularly helpful in explaining the Relational Database Theory. I had one question though. If they relate existing data with each other, why do you say it is not efficient? Doesn’t the fact that it can relate to other data make it more helpful?