Using CADD applications to support construction activities

This paper discusses how electronic CADD submittals from designers can be transformed into a format appropriate for construction planning and management. Currently, design drawings are organized in a format which is most suitable for design. We envision a new layering scheme which supplements the standard design layers and information to facilitate activities during construction. New CADD layers and/or reference files can be set up to represent shop drawings, as-built drawings, construction laydown areas, temporary structures, special information useful to each of the trades and/or sub-contractors, work areas, and information needed from the scheduler, planner and cost estimator's point of view. By using visualization and simulation tools with scheduling software, the facility can be `built' on the computer, and checked for interferences and schedule conflicts. Three-dimensional CADD drawings with associated databases of components can be captured from design, added to during construction, associated with cost, schedule, and progress data in a multi-media format, and ultimately will represent the completed facility and its components. Facility managers and operators will then be able to use the CADD as-built drawings/database of the completed facility to support their activities. Through the intelligent use of CADD and multi-media data about facility components, the process of communicating and decision-making during the facility delivery process will be transformed.