March 31, 2003—UK Construction Minister Brian Wilson has launched a 1.5m research initiative that he hopes will lead to new offices being built in half the time it currently takes.
Two three-year research programs will look at how contractors can improve their information technology and building methods to raise construction standards. Funding comes from the DTI’s Partners in Innovation program.
The two themes for research are off-site production of readymade building units and increased use of IT, specifically linking contractors and designers so they can work more closely together.
In announcing the funding decision, Wilson said: “These programs address the critical issues facing the sector—the need to find innovative ways to bring together the supply chain and the need to explore more efficient and competitive ways of working.”
Reprinted with permission; copyright 2003 i-FM
