Integration of Microcomputer Applications: Current and Future Approaches

The degree of integration of microcomputer applications used on a construction project varies widely. The range goes from stand-alone applications on a single micro to multiple applications that share a single database stored on a server in a local area network that is in turn linked to a corporate database stored on a mainframe at headquarters. This paper explores the current options available for integration and the changes that may occur as new technology is introduced for databases, communication and CAD/CAE. These changes will have a profound impact on the type of applications that are integrated and on the nature of the interactions among field engineering and management personnel.