Enterprise Resource Planning for Construction Business Management
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 129, Issue 2
Abstract
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) was originated in the manufacturing industry. It provides a general working environment for an enterprise to integrate its major business management functions with one single common database so that information can be shared and efficient communications can be achieved between management functions. This paper first briefs the ERP technology, its origin, and its current development in general. Based on the needs of running a construction enterprise, ERP shows its potential for the construction industry. However, the unique nature of the industry prevents a direct implementation of existing ERP systems, which are primarily developed for the manufacturing industry. This paper underlines the importance of the establishment of the basic theory for developing construction enterprise resource planning systems (CERP). A CERP must address the nature of the general industry practice. Fundamental features are identified and discussed in the paper. A three-tiered client/server architecture is proposed, with discussions on the functions and major components of each tier. Needed research issues are discussed, including CERP architectures, project management functions, advanced planning techniques, standardization of management functions, and modeling human intelligence. Construction management examples are incorporated into the discussions.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 129 • Issue 2 • April 2003
Pages: 214 - 221
Copyright
Copyright © 2003 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 15, 2001
Accepted: Apr 11, 2002
Published online: Mar 14, 2003
Published in print: Apr 2003
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