An industry foundation classes Web-based collaborative construction computer environment: WISPER

Collaborative working in construction is becoming a reality as many activities are performed globally with actors based in various geographical locations. This paper discusses the development and implementation of a collaborative working environment for construction at the University of Salford which is known as Web-based IFC Shared Project Environment (WISPER). The environment is based on a three tier architecture, where user interfaces, business logic and database are kept separate. A Web and Industry Foundation Classes-based (IFC-based) distributed computer integrated environment has been developed. This environment supports design (CAD), visualisation (VR and Drawing Web Format - DWF), estimating, planning, specifications and supplier information. WISPER enables project information to be exchanged through a STEP Part 21 file and shared through the LFC database. Meanwhile, a set of Web pages allows for remote interaction, as well as access to and the distribution of applications. This provides gnat flexibility and portability, thereby enabling construction professionals to contribute as well as to perform and manage their own activities. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.