Developing a knowledge based information system (KISCCES) for construction cost estimating and scheduling

This paper discusses a research project to develop a "knowledge-based information system for construction cost estimating and scheduling" (KISCCES). To accomplish the goal, researchers developed a prototype project management system that can produce pictorial data for all involved parties, and cost and schedule in a nearly real-time basis. The scope of the research project includes transferring pictorial data via the wireless network, measuring construction productivity using time-lapse video, and developing a graphic user interface for cost estimating and scheduling. The tasks for this project are outlined as follows: conduct literature review, purchase necessary software and hardware, define measurement data for each activity, conduct field experiments in construction projects to transmit time-lapse video wirelessly and consistently, and develop a prototype graphic user interface to estimate cost and duration on a nearly real-time basis. Upon development of the KISCCES, the researchers evaluated the estimated cost and schedule by statistically comparing it with estimates by construction industry experts.