From BIM to Web3: A Review of Data Management Innovations in Construction Informatics

By Nidhi DhullReviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc.Nov 6 2024

A recent article published in Advanced Engineering Informatics examined current and emerging data management strategies in construction informatics, using a critical interpretive synthesis (CIS) approach to assess their real-world applications.

The study investigates core tools in construction informatics, such as Open Schema, Information Containers, Common Data Environments (CDEs), and Linked Data, now central to organizing and sharing project information. It also explores emerging Web3 technologies, including blockchain and decentralized data protocols, examining how these tools could secure and streamline data exchanges for construction projects. Together, these insights address key challenges in interoperability, data security, and real-time information sharing—factors critical to the successful execution of large-scale construction projects.

Background

Managing and transferring data across the various stages and disciplines of complex construction projects is essential yet challenging. While the industry has embraced digitization, seamless integration of data across project phases and stakeholders remains difficult, largely due to the fragmented structure of construction teams, where collaboration often lacks standardization across tools and models.

The information silos created by these disjointed sources limit the ability to process, extract, and apply data. For effective data integration, interoperability between different systems and tools is crucial, yet construction informatics remains hampered by non-integrated, often confusing data management practices.

The researchers adopted the CIS approach to address these issues, allowing for a context-sensitive review of theoretical and empirical literature in construction informatics. Unlike a standard systematic review, CIS provides nuanced interpretations tailored to the real-world complexities of integrating diverse data systems within construction workflows.

Data Management in Construction Informatics

Data management in construction centers on two main dimensions: storage and processing. Storage modes—local, cloud, and web-of-data—impact data accessibility and have evolved with technological advancements.

• Local Storage: Although widely used, this method is susceptible to risks like data loss, hardware failure, and theft.
• Cloud Storage: This more accessible mode raises questions surrounding data security, privacy, and ownership.
• Web-of-Data: The newest model integrates diverse data sources on an interconnected platform, enabling advanced analytics and applications of AI and machine learning to support decision-making directly.

On the processing side, construction informatics uses technology and analytical methods to transform data into actionable insights. By processing data in real-time, project teams can monitor performance metrics, enhance safety and quality control, and proactively address issues—driving smarter construction practices.

Current Data Management Approaches

The CIS analysis identified six primary categories of data management: open schema, closed schema, open-source frameworks, traditional software, information containers, and Web3 technologies. These approaches align with the dual focus on storage and processing.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) illustrates the adaptability of data management, crossing technological boundaries. For example, a local storage strategy may combine closed and open schema data synchronized across internal servers with information containers. Alternatively, BIM can be cloud-based, using either closed or open schema models, as well as open-source frameworks, allowing flexibility based on project needs.

Similarly, CDEs often leverage cloud platforms, using information containers, open-source frameworks, or both closed and open schema strategies to centralize data access and support collaborative project management. CDEs are pivotal for project coordination, providing secure, real-time data access across stakeholders.

Integrating Web3 Technologies

Web3 systems have huge potential for data storage, access, ownership, and management. By decentralizing data management, Web3 networks challenge traditional centralized models. However, despite their data management capabilities, Web3 technologies are often viewed as separate from conventional strategies and lack a fully integrated perspective.

Layer 1 (L1) Web3 technologies, including zero/low trust interaction protocols and data distribution protocols, broaden data access and connectivity across network nodes. Blockchain enhances transparency and verification, allowing data points to be accessed and validated across the network. Decentralized storage networks (DSNs) manage structured data, which can be accessed, updated, and manipulated on demand.

Although Web3 has the potential to address systemic data management constraints in construction informatics, it may not fully resolve the industry’s structural challenges. However, integrating Web3 features within conventional data management practices could provide valuable decentralization benefits, and its potential in construction scenarios warrants careful exploration.

Conclusion

This study proposes an innovative framework for incorporating Web3 technologies into data management practices in construction informatics. While limitations exist—particularly given the rapidly evolving nature of Web3 and the complexities of its integration with existing data practices—the researchers argue that Web3’s transparency and decentralization capabilities could significantly enhance collaboration and project efficiency.

Future studies should focus on validating this framework in practical applications, such as pilot projects that measure Web3’s impact and scalability in construction environments. Gradual, pilot-based integration of Web3 technologies in current construction informatics systems may yield measurable benefits for the industry, with potential to transform data transparency and project management.

Journal Reference

Bucher, D. F., Hunhevicz, J. J., Soman, R. K., Pauwels, P., & Hall, D. M. (2024). From BIM to Web3: A critical interpretive synthesis of present and emerging data management approaches in construction informatics. Advanced Engineering Informatics, 62, 102884. DOI: 10.1016/j.aei.2024.102884, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1474034624005329

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