A cost control system development: A collaborative approach for small and medium-sized contractors

Construction business comprises a number of small and medium-sized contractors which form the major part of the industry. The existing research on the new ICT development is creating very sophisticated and complex systems which are not yet applicable to this part of the construction industry. With regard to general limitations as design criteria, this research uses a collaborative approach to develop a cost control system for five selected small and-medium-sized contractors. The new efficient cost control system is adopted on the earned value concept and is developed using available ICT tools which are familiar and easy-to-learn. A collaborative approach can ensure the diffusion of technology to these companies. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd and IPMA. All rights reserved.