Evaluation of economic impact of three-dimensional modeling in precast concrete engineering

Sophisticated three-dimensional parametric modeling software for design and detailing of precast/prestressed concrete construction is currently under development. The technology holds the potential to reduce costs, shorten lead times, and avoid errors in production and erection. To date, however, no rational assessment has been made of the costs and benefits of adoption. No standard methodology exists for the assessment of the benefits of information technology in the construction industry. This paper establishes a qualitative checklist of the expected costs and benefits for precast construction, proposes hypotheses for estimating them, and presents data to support initial assessment of the magnitude of the short-term factors. It also establishes a bench mark of engineering costs for North American precast companies. The bench mark is intended for ongoing assessment of the planned integration of the technology in the member companies of the North American Precast Concrete Software Consortium.