Data Management Flashcards
What is BCIS, and why is it used in construction and surveying?
BCIS (Building Cost Information Service) is a leading construction cost database used for cost estimating, benchmarking, and valuation. It provides data on:
Construction costs and price indices
Life cycle costs
Rebuild cost assessments
Tender price indices
How does BCIS support cost estimating?
BCIS provides real-time cost data from live projects, allowing surveyors to compare historical construction costs and adjust for inflation, location, and project specifications.
What are the advantages of using BCIS?
Standardised cost data for accurate benchmarking.
Provides market trends and cost indices.
Improves accuracy in budgeting and forecasting.
What are common methods of collecting data in construction projects?
Manual data collection – Site surveys, physical measurements, and inspections.
Electronic data collection – Using drones, sensors, or Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Supplier and contractor reports – Cost data from materials and labour.
How is project data typically stored in an organisation?
Centralised project databases (e.g., SharePoint, BIM 360, Procore).
Cloud-based platforms for remote access.
Internal server storage for confidential files.
Printed archives (for legal records and contracts).
Why is proper data storage important?
It ensures accuracy, accessibility, security, and compliance with regulations such as GDPR and data protection laws
What are common methods of storing project information?
Digital storage: Shared drives, cloud systems (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive).
Project databases: ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems.
Document control systems: EDMS (Electronic Document Management Systems).
Hard copy storage: Legal documents and drawings in physical archives.
How does cloud-based storage improve project information management?
Provides real-time access to documents.
Reduces the risk of data loss.
Enhances collaboration across teams and locations.
What is an electronic database system in construction?
It is a structured digital system for storing, retrieving, and managing project data. Examples include:
SQL databases for structured data storage.
Document management systems like Aconex or Procore.
What are the benefits of electronic databases in construction?
Faster data retrieval and reporting.
Secure data backups.
Improved collaboration and version control.
What are the risks of using electronic database systems?
Cybersecurity threats (data breaches, hacking).
Data corruption or loss if backups are not maintained.
Dependence on IT infrastructure, requiring training and investment.
What is BIM, and how does it work?
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics, allowing for collaborative design, construction, and facility management.
What are the benefits of BIM?
Improves collaboration among stakeholders.
Enhances design accuracy, reducing errors and rework.
Supports cost forecasting and sustainability analysis.
Enables 3D visualization and clash detection.
What are the challenges of BIM implementation?
High initial costs for software and training.
Requires data standardisation for interoperability.
Resistance to change from traditional work methods.
What are the dangers of poor BIM data management?
Incorrect data entry leading to costly construction errors.
Cybersecurity risks from data breaches.
Legal issues if responsibilities for BIM data are unclear.
What are the key data protection laws relevant to construction?
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (UK & EU) – Governs the handling of personal data.
Data Protection Act 2018 (UK) – Implements GDPR in the UK.
Freedom of Information Act 2000 – Allows public access to government-held information.
How does GDPR impact data management in construction?
Companies must obtain explicit consent before collecting personal data.
Data must be stored securely and only kept as long as necessary.
Individuals have the right to access, correct, or delete their personal data.
What are the risks of non-compliance with data legislation?
Legal fines for data breaches.
Loss of client trust if data is mismanaged.
Operational disruptions from cybersecurity incidents.
