[Back]

M. Sreckovic, G. Sibenik, I. Kovacic:
"The platform ecosystems in the AEC industry: a conceptual integrative framework";
Talk: EMNet - 8th international conference on ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT OF NETWORKS, Universidad de La Habana, Cuba (invited); 2018-11-15 - 2018-11-17.

Digital technologies are revolutionizing collaboration and value co-creation across traditional industry boundaries and thus generating the need for adaptive and innovative business models, new and flexible network forms as well as new digital processes and capabilities. The traditionally very conservative AEC (architecture, engineering and construction) industry is currently experiencing a rapid digital transformation. Nevertheless, despite the extensive integration of digital tools and technologies, which would require the innovation of business models and practices, the AEC industry tries to apply the new technologies within the traditional processes, thereby lacking complete achievement of the expected economic, technical and processual benefits that new technologies offer.
The highly fragmented and heterogeneous AEC industry applies the concept of digital building information modelling and management (BIMM), as one of the most spread new designing and construction methods used. However, the problem of a varying and sometimes even conflicting BIM understanding reflects various requirements and mindsets of numerous professional domains in the AEC industry; such as e.g. exclusive focus on 3D modelling or intra-firm instead of inter-firm data exchange and knowledge generation processes. A holistic approach that would include various models as well as data processing is lacking, however needed for a) the generation of knowledge and innovation in the industry ecosystem through continuous data and information flows (without misinterpretation or losses) along the life cycle and b) for the achievement of added value through the implementation of digital tools.
In this research, based on the analysis of two existing cases of internal digital platforms in the AEC industry in Austria, we propose the conceptual framework for the design of an external (industry) digital platform. Thereby we close the gap in literature and practice providing a joint framework across the AEC industry. The external platform would offer structured and open data exchange formats for the enhancement of productive processes, including improved engineering, procurement and supply chain management; finally resulting in the creation of new business models and thus innovation in AEC industry. Our proposed framework is predicated on the current state of the differing needs and requirements of professionals in this industry, but could be applicable in other industries as well.