Database: construction industry on-line retrieval systems

Abstract

This research report investigates Information Retrieval and, to a greater extent, Database Development. The objectives of the study are: Determine what is involved in database development. Produce a reference document for anyone contemplating setting up a database for the construction industry. Obtain an indication of the feasibility and/or desirability of a construction database in New Zealand. Determine how information is currently gathered, what information is being used, and whether this information is appropriate for computerized storage systems. Learn different research methods and the relative usefulness of each Information retrieval encompasses the types of information, methods of information transfer and sources of information within the construction industry. Case studies are included covering SPECTEL and BRANZINFO. SPECTEL is a database containing product information, standards, product prices, technical information, a trade directory and BRANZ publications. It also provides an electronic mail service. BRANZINFO is a reference database to all publications held in the BRANZ library. Database Development introduces the fundamentals of database theory. Functional components, management and staffing are major topics in this section of the report. The report deals with the components and basics of the database and not with specific technical issues such as relationships between data items This report is not intended to be a detailed guide to the setting up of a database nor does it deal with the economic feasibility of such a system. The intention is to provide the prospective construction database manager with somewhere to start. This includes the basics of the database and those things which should be considered when developing a system.