IT Tools for collaborative working in relationally integrated supply chains

The pursuit of Value for Money (VFM) in construction projects requires a dual focus on optimizing the combination of whole life costs and quality in meeting the client's requirements. Relationally integrated supply chains (RISCs) have been proposed as a potential solution to achieving these VFM goals. However, an unambiguous understanding and knowledge of project-process interactions in RISC environments will underpin the success of such arrangements. It is essential that enabling IT tools and infrastructures be deployed to facilitate decision-making within a RISC framework. This paper analyzes the main characteristics of the targeted RISC environments and outlines the complexities of the interactions engendered by this new paradigms in construction project management. It then briefly summarizes the resulting data and information requirements at different decision points in the organizational structures, and identifies software systems requirements and suitable IT tools that would enhance the collaborative arrangements that are needed at these different decision points in the construction supply chain. Recommendations are formulated for achieving IT-enabled process innovations for accelerating the formation of relationally integrated construction supply chains.