Partner Article

'Virtual office' for construction teams

A new software solution is hoping to transform the way the construction industry works. Developed by Durham-based business and IT consultants Waterstons, the online portal aims to remove geographical boundaries between architects, quantity surveyors, planning officers, engineers, manufacturers and contractors by creating a ‘virtual office’ from which every member of staff involved in a project can work, no matter where they are located.

The system uses Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 and K2 blackpearl to create an information portal, managing project and tender documentation such as CAD drawings, planning applications, specifications and quotations.

The plan is to reduce potential confusion and errors such as over-delivery of materials to sites or incorrect building work taking place.

Alistair McLeod, Waterstons’ executive consultant, said: “The portal replaces the hard copy drawings which have traditionally been sent though the post and allows access via the internet to different supply chain members. Local authority planning professionals, architects, quantity surveyors, manufacturers and building contractors can all work from the same CAD drawing. “It really is as if they were all working from the same site.”

Waterstons are holding two seminars in April to show off the new system. For more information visit www.waterstons.com.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .