A web based integrated global project management system for large scale A/E/C/ projects

Abstract

The globalization of architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C) industry has added new dimensions to project management. A wide spectrum of tools and software are used by project managers to manage these geographically distributed projects. PC or LAN based project management software is already widespread and popular in A/E/C industry. However, the access to the software is limited to the LAN and the server where they reside, and to use the software, project managers have to undergo extensive training. Current practice in collecting latest progress data for updating schedule is time consuming, and it is difficult to communicate this information to all the participants involved, especially if they are in different companies and located in different countries. The goal of this thesis is to develop an Integrated Web based Global Project Management System (IGPMS). IGPMS provides a web based graphical user interface that allows project managers to view and update the projects online. IGPMS provides project managers with web-based analysis and reporting tool for the project schedules. IGPMS also integrates the different information systems used for project management through software interoperability and provides a "common language" for product, process and resource information. IGPMS also introduces the concept of a web based project repository where project managers can submit a new project to the server and instantly view, update and analyze the project schedule through a web browser.