Developing a methodology for live capture and reuse of construction project knowledge

There are a growing number of research projects on knowledge management addressing various issues in construction, but the live capture and reuse of construction project knowledge has remained a major challenge that has not been adequately addressed. This paper describes work forming part of the research project on capturing and reusing of project knowledge in construction. It starts with an identification of the current state of knowledge management and its application in construction. The ways in which knowledge is captured and reused in real live construction projects is then examined to provide the basis of a conceptual approach for the live capture of reusable project knowledge reflecting both organisational and human dimensions. Managing knowledge will provide considerable benefits in construction projects, but appropriate techniques and technologies are required to promote knowledge capture and reuse. The paper concludes that the capture and reuse of knowledge, will not only prevent the re-invention of the wheel, but could be the basis for innovation, increased agility, better teamwork, supply chain integration, and improved performance in project delivery.