Title: Searching for success: the relationship between information technology and business process reengineering

Authors: C.E.A. Fowler, C. Gray, S.J. Palmer

Addresses: Department of Construction Management & Engineering, University of Reading, PO Box 219, Whiteknights, Reading, UK. ' Department of Construction Management & Engineering, University of Reading, PO Box 219, Whiteknights, Reading, UK. ' TRADA Technology Ltd., Stocking Lane, Hughendon Valley, High Wycombe, UK

Abstract: Productivity and cost performance within the UK construction industry must improve substantially if the demands of the industry|s clients are to be met. Experience also dictates that this must be accomplished without compromising standards of quality and individuality. One way to achieve this goal would be for designers, suppliers, specialists and clients to work together and adopt an integrated strategy for business process improvement and change. This paper will discuss the application of the concept of business process reengineering and outlines a methodology whereby this can and has been achieved in construction. The relationship between information technology (IT) and BPR for construction projects is subsequently developed. Following this is a description of clients| perceptions, detailing their views on the potential for IT within the construction process. The key factors which IT must address if it is to become accepted within a construction project following the reengineering process are discussed. Finally, if the strategy for sustainable performance improvement were to be widely adopted, the implications for the industry are discussed and key recommendations are posited.

Keywords: business process reengineering; BPR; information technology; productivity; efficiency; UK construction industry; United Kingdom; cost performance; business process improvement; business process change; construction projects.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.1998.062214

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 1998 Vol.11 No.6, pp.428 - 435

Published online: 01 Jun 2014 *

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