Roadmap Encourages Integration of Information Technology to Manage Home Building Process

The building process involves many different players, from architects to land developers to bankers. Today's information technology could easily manage the many relationships necessary to undertake a successful building process; however, homebuilders have not taken full advantage of its possibilities. The "Information Technology to Accelerate and Streamline Home Building" Roadmap reviews the current uses of information technology in home building, identifies gaps in usage, and develops strategies for how its use should be expanded to better facilitate the flow of information during the building process.

Why Builders Don't Use Technology

An overview of how information technology is currently used in home building identifies the following barriers to its wider use:

• A majority of builders are small businesses that cannot afford large, complex information systems.
  
• Most builders rely on small trade subcontractors who also lack sophisticated computer equipment.
  
• Building sites are scattered and disconnected as the majority of homes are built on-site.
  
• The lack of uniformity in terminology or building codes across the country makes it expensive to develop a standard system that can be marketed to different builders.

The remainder of the Roadmap describes four strategies for overcoming these barriers. Each solution includes a breakdown of the steps necessary for implementation, a timeline, estimated costs, and recommendations regarding funding.

Create a Common Language

A number of efforts are underway to develop a common language within the industry. Most of today's efforts focus on commercial building construction, but some of the work already completed could serve as a useful starting point for the residential construction sector. Developing common terminology involves defining the necessary protocols and interface standards to allow design, supply, construction, and sales and marketing functions to communicate seamlessly. A common language would span, integrate, and be embedded in each of the current major areas of home building.

Streamline the Regulatory Process

Builders must navigate a frequently confusing path through various governmental agencies to gain approval for their building projects. Better use of information technology systems could streamline and ease the burden on the approval process. For example, builders typically obtain multiple permits from one or more agencies by standing in line to submit basic project information and complete forms. However, some jurisdictions have increased efficiency and streamlined the process utilizing electronic permitting. Better, more accessible software systems could also expedite the review, site visit, and product approval processes.

Develop a Non-commercial Information Portal

While there is a bounty of commercial information on the Internet about building products and processes, builders, and trade contractors, homeowners need objective information about materials, new products and process technologies, and directions to apply them. A non-commercial building information portal would provide objective information about subjects important to builders and consumers and allow them to compare products and processes to find the ones best suited for their needs.

Create Production Management Systems from Concept to Closure

The greatest challenges faced by most homebuilders revolve around execution of a production process that is complex, unpredictable, and always subject to change. Information technology can not only make today's management approaches work more smoothly and accurately, but it can also lay the foundation for basic changes in the conduct of business that will improve productivity.