BATAAN PENINSULA STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Engineering and Architecture

Department of Civil Engineering

Optimizing Advancements in Database

Management Systems for Enhanced Construction

Project Management

Midterm Term Paper

for the course CEPC0504 – DATABASE MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION

GROUP 10:

Vea Bianca E. David

Daniel Dave A. Hernandez

Clark Louise A. Santos

April 26, 2024

i
Table of Contents

Title i

Table of Contents ii

Introduction 1

Review of Related Literature 2

Application of Database Management System 3

Construction Industry 3

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence 4

Cloud Database Management 5

Big Data Processing 6

Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies 7

Graph Database Management 7

Analysis 8

Conclusion and Recommendations 12

Bibliography 14

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 1. INTRODUCTION

Human beings began to store information long ago. Ancient

civilizations like the Egyptians and Sumerians pioneered accounting

techniques to keep track of data and understand their day-to-day lives.

When the use of computers became a more cost-effective option for private

organizations in the 1960s, it started computerized databases. And, as the

21st Century starts, databases are everywhere and are used to enhance our

day-to-day life. Imagine a world without data storage, every detail about a

person or organization, every transaction performed, or every aspect that

can be documented is lost directly after use. Organizations would thus lose

the ability to extract valuable information and knowledge, perform detailed

analysis, as well as provide new opportunities and advantages.

According to Elgendy & Elragal (2014), In the information era,

enormous amounts of data have become available on hand, which makes

them difficult to handle using traditional tools and techniques. The size,

variety, and rapid change of such data require a new type of big data

analytics, as well as different storage and analysis methods. Due to the rapid

growth of such data, solutions need to be studied and provided in order to

handle and extract value and knowledge from these datasets. Such value

can be provided using big data analytics, which is the application of

advanced analytics techniques, methods, and tools.

According to Akinade et al. (2016), The construction industry is not an

exception to the pervasive digital revolution. The industry is dealing with

significant data arising from diverse disciplines throughout the life cycle of a

facility. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is envisioned to capture multi-

dimensional CAD information systematically for supporting multidisciplinary

collaboration among the stakeholders. Although the construction industry

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generates massive amounts of data throughout the life cycle of a building, the

adoption of Big Data technology in this sector lags the progress made in other

fields. With the commoditization of the technology necessary for storing,

computing, processing, analyzing, and visualizing Big Data, there is immense

interest in leveraging such technologies for improving the efficiency of

construction processes. While data-driven analytics have long been used in the

construction industry due to the broad applicability of such techniques in many

construction subdomains, the adoption of the recent, much agiler and powerful,

Big Data technology has been relatively slow.

The researchers will examine how these advancements can enhance

various aspects of construction project management, such as improving

efficiency, data organization, collaboration among stakeholders, and

decision-making processes. The said advancements could include the

facilitation of real-time data access, integrated project information

management, and advanced analytics, which are crucial in addressing the

complex and dynamic nature of construction projects. By examining these

applications, the study aims to contribute valuable insights into optimizing

the advancements in database management systems in construction

practices through technology-driven solutions. This study also aims to add

knowledge to a growing body of research that underscores the multifaceted

benefits of DBMS adoption in the construction sector, emphasizing its

advancements’ potential to reshape traditional practices and enhance

industry performance.

2. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Databases have undergone significant evolution since their

emergence in the early 1960s. Initially, navigational databases like the

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hierarchical and network databases were utilized, each with its limitations

and strengths. The hierarchical database operated on a tree-like model,

accommodating only a one-to-many relationship, while the network database

offered more flexibility with multiple relationships. However, these early

systems were relatively inflexible. In the 1980s, relational databases gained

popularity for their ability to manage data through tables with defined

relationships. Following this, object-oriented databases emerged in the

1990s, providing a more natural representation of complex data structures

(Oracle, 2017).

With the rise of the internet and the demand for faster processing of

unstructured data, NoSQL databases emerged as a solution in recent years.

These databases offer scalability and high performance for handling vast

amounts of data. Presently, cloud databases and self-driving databases are

pushing the boundaries of data management. Cloud databases provide

scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness by leveraging cloud

infrastructure. Self-driving databases utilize automation and machine

learning to optimize performance, security, and maintenance tasks, reducing

the need for manual intervention (Oracle, 2017).

Databases typically store collections of information records or

documents containing various types of data, such as sales transactions,

customer details, financials, and product information. Databases are

distinguished by the nature of the data they store, which can include text,

numbers, or other subject matters. Database system as a computer-based

system designed to store, record, and maintain data or information that can

be retrieved as needed for decision-making purposes. Databases are used

for storing, maintaining, and accessing all kinds of information, gathering

data on individuals, places, or objects. This data is consolidated in one

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location for easy observation and analysis. Therefore, databases can be

viewed as integrated collections of data (Obiano et al., 2023).

2.1. APPLICATIONS OF DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

2.1.1.Construction Industry

Construction databases are an integral component of project

management, functioning as centralized repositories for diverse project-

related data. Emphasizing their role as virtual hubs. Construction databases

facilitate real-time access to crucial information, enabling stakeholders to

make informed decisions and maintain project efficiency. The advent of the

internet has revolutionized the accessibility of databases for construction

companies, offering a plethora of external databases ranging from projects

to subcontractors. These databases serve as vital repositories of critical

information, facilitating efficient project tracking and specific data retrieval

(Kolosky, 2023).

Subcontractors utilize project databases to identify potential projects,

while contractors seek subcontractor databases for job-specific

requirements. With many databases transitioning to online platforms

resembling marketplaces, stakeholders can seamlessly connect and mutually

benefit. Additionally, internal databases within construction companies

encompass comprehensive project and company information, including

workforce details, project progress, and assets. Some companies are still

relying on manual or paper-based databases but the introduction of

construction database software has significantly streamlined data

management processes. Early spreadsheet tools like Excel laid the

groundwork, but newer cloud-based solutions offer integrated platforms

accessible both onsite and in the office. These advanced systems enable

real-time data synchronization, eliminating double-handling and minimizing

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the risk of errors associated with manual data entry. Modular components

within these systems facilitate easy access to various database sections,

fostering efficiency and enhancing database quality (Hodgeson, 2023).

2.1.2.Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

Data analytics plays a pivotal role in modern business strategies by

enabling companies to collect, examine, and analyze vast amounts of data to

uncover market trends, insights, and patterns. This wealth of information

allows organizations to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently,

fostering agility in maintaining their competitive edge. Leveraging

technologies such as business intelligence (BI) tools and systems, companies

can harness both structured and unstructured data from diverse sources.

Users, typically employees, input queries into these tools to gain insights into

business operations and performance. Employing various data analysis

methods, data analytics unveils meaningful insights and facilitates the

derivation of solutions. Crucially, big data analytics empowers companies to

identify opportunities for improvement and optimization across different

business segments, leading to increased efficiency, higher profits, and

greater customer satisfaction. By reducing costs and developing customer-

centric products and services, big data analytics enables companies to thrive

in today's dynamic business landscape (Coursera, 2024).

The concept of Business Intelligence (BI) encompasses an automated

process designed to extract models and insights from raw data collected

from different sources, thereby enhancing business operations and

processes. Traditional BI systems rely on reporting mechanisms to access

transaction data stored in the data warehouse, facilitating pattern detection

and business trend prediction. Modern BI environments extend beyond

traditional data sources, incorporating unstructured data from sources like

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mobile devices, sensors, and online social networks. However, this influx of

data presents challenges in maintaining query efficiency and addressing big

data complexities. Nevertheless, this expansion in data sources opens up

new opportunities within BI, enabling situational BI for real-time insights and

operational BI for instant feedback in business operations. Furthermore, self-

service BI empowers users to create analytics rules based on meta-

information, albeit requiring careful management to ensure compliance and

governance standards are upheld (Gad-Elrab, 2020).

2.1.3.Cloud Database Management

A cloud database, built and accessed through a cloud computing

platform, offers the same functionalities as traditional databases while

leveraging the flexibility of cloud computing. Users deploy software on a

cloud infrastructure to implement the database, addressing scalability and

availability challenges associated with managing engagement and

application data for vast networks of mobile users or remote devices. Unlike

traditional databases that often rely on updates to a central "master"

database, cloud databases enable organizations to distribute database

access to the edges of the network, improving scalability and allowing

applications to function even when offline. By leveraging the hybrid cloud

concept, cloud databases collect, deliver, replicate, and push data to the

edge, eliminating the need for dependent middleware and enabling direct

application-to-database connections. This approach accommodates growing

data management needs, allowing organizations to optimize the data layer

for factors like cost, performance, security, and reach (IBM, 2024).

Cloud databases address modern challenges, including the

exponential growth and disparate nature of data, while facilitating real-time

data processing crucial for business success. They offer advantages such as

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reduced operational overhead, improved agility and scalability, lower total

cost of ownership (TCO), flexible database options, safe and secure data

management, and better reliability. However, organizations must consider

factors like vendor lock-in, data integration complexities, migration

challenges, cloud costs, connection downtime risks, and security concerns

when planning their migration to the cloud. Careful evaluation of cloud

service providers and service models is essential to meet specific business

needs effectively (Gartner, 2021)

2.1.4.Big Data Processing

The convergence of big data with AI represents a pivotal shift in how

organizations leverage their data and analytics capabilities to drive business

value. Historically, AI technologies were constrained by limited data

availability and sample sizes, hindering meaningful learning and results.

However, the availability of vast volumes and diverse sources of data now

enables AI and machine learning to unlock capabilities that were previously

dormant. Digital advancements have facilitated the transition from batch to

real-time data processing, providing always-available access to data. This

paradigm shift empowers data scientists to work with massive datasets

without restrictions, moving from a hypothesis-based approach to a "data

first" approach. By loading all available data and allowing it to guide analysis,

organizations can uncover insights and patterns that were previously

obscured. Redundant data can be culled, and predictive data can be

analyzed using agile data management approaches such as analytical

sandboxes or big data centers of excellence. This "load and go" approach

fosters a culture of data discovery through iteration, enabling organizations

to experiment, learn, and iterate quickly. Ultimately, big data empowers

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organizations to fail fast and learn faster, accelerating innovation and driving

competitive advantage in the dynamic business landscape (Bean, 2017).

2.1.5.Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies

Blockchain, a type of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT),

revolutionizes transaction recording by distributing transaction data across a

network of computers or nodes, ensuring decentralization, immutability, and

transparency. DLT, characterized by its encoded and distributed database,

offers several features crucial for modernizing traditional bookkeeping

methods. Decentralization ensures that every node maintains the ledger

independently, enhancing transparency and fault tolerance. The immutability

of data, achieved through cryptography, prevents tampering or alteration of

recorded transactions. Append-only functionality ensures that data is added

but not altered, bolstering data integrity. Distributed nature eliminates the

need for a central authority, enhancing transparency and trust among

participants. Smart contracts enable automation and execution of predefined

contract terms, enhancing efficiency and security. Fault tolerance is ensured

as data remains available even if one node fails. Transparency allows every

participant to view ledger transactions, fostering trust. Efficiency is enhanced

as transactions are processed and settled rapidly. Lastly, security is

heightened through cryptographic signatures, safeguarding transactions

against fraud. DLT can replace traditional bookkeeping methods by

addressing their limitations, such as errors in data entry, data manipulation

risks, and lack of data verification. Real-time data sharing with transparency

ensures up-to-date and legitimate ledger data, while eliminating single

points of failure prevents manipulation and errors. With DLT, consensus

mechanisms validate transactions without the need for a central authority,

reducing transaction costs and processing times (Androulaki et al., 2018).

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2.1.6.Graph Database Management

Graph databases offer a myriad of advantages, with a significant

emphasis on their practical applications across various domains. One of their

most notable applications lies in social networks, where they excel in

managing the complex web of user connections. By representing each user

as a node and their relationships as edges, graph databases streamline

content personalization, community detection, influence and trend analysis,

event planning, and privacy management within social platforms. For

instance, they power features like personalized feeds, recommendation

systems for relevant groups, event suggestions based on interests, and

ensuring content sharing respects user privacy settings. Moreover, their

application extends beyond social networks to areas such as fraud detection,

recommendation systems, network and IT operations, logistics and supply

chain management, and knowledge graphs in healthcare and life sciences.

Through their versatile and efficient handling of interconnected data, graph

databases continue to revolutionize various industries, driving innovation

and enhancing decision-making processes (Xu, 2024).

3. ANALYSIS

Over the decades since their emergence in the early 1960s, databases

have experienced notable evolution, driven by advancements in technology.

The researchers are motivated to investigate how these evolutionary

changes, coupled with the integration of modern technological innovations,

contribute to enhancing different dimensions of construction project

management.

The evolution of databases encompasses not only improvements in

storage capacity and speed but also the development of more sophisticated

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functionalities and capabilities. Additionally, the introduction of technologies

such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics has

revolutionized the way databases are utilized and managed.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence, for instance, are

predominantly utilized to provide management support in various aspects

such as budget preparation, ongoing cost management of projects, and

ensuring occupational safety. Moreover, these tools find application in

broader domains including knowledge management, risk assessment,

strategic planning, scheduling, productivity enhancement, inventory

tracking, vendor supervision, waste reduction, and even structural design.

This integration of analytics and business intelligence enables more informed

decision-making and efficient operations throughout the construction

lifecycle (Lopes & Boscarioli, 2021).

By integrating analytics and business intelligence into construction

processes, stakeholders can make more informed decisions and streamline

operations throughout the entire lifecycle of a project. For example, by

analyzing historical project data, construction companies can better estimate

budgets and allocate resources effectively. Similarly, by utilizing predictive

analytics, they can anticipate potential risks and plan strategies to mitigate

them, thus enhancing project success rates.

Furthermore, these tools facilitate the optimization of various

operational aspects, such as scheduling and productivity, by providing

insights into performance metrics and identifying areas for improvement.

Additionally, they aid in inventory management by tracking materials and

supplies, ensuring timely procurement and minimizing waste.

Cloud computing serves as a pivotal tool utilized primarily for safety

protocols, waste reduction strategies, supply chain oversight, energy

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conservation efforts, and construction informatics. Furthermore, the industry

harnesses the computational capabilities offered by cloud platforms for

robust data analysis. Additionally, cloud computing provides a secure, cost-

effective, and convenient means for all stakeholders to access construction-

related data. Its application extends throughout the project lifecycle, aiding

in feasibility studies, design processes, and construction phases. This

integration of cloud computing enhances collaboration, efficiency, and

decision-making within the construction domain (Bello et. al., 2021).

By utilizing cloud platforms, construction projects can benefit from

enhanced collaboration, streamlined workflows, and improved efficiency. For

instance, stakeholders can access real-time project data, collaborate on

design revisions, and track progress seamlessly, regardless of their physical

location. Additionally, the integration of cloud computing enhances the

overall project management process by providing centralized access to

critical information, facilitating better coordination among teams, and

ensuring transparency across the construction ecosystem.

Big data is instrumental in enhancing efficiency throughout the

construction process by effectively managing claims, overseeing project

progress, and optimizing procurement strategies. In a broader context, these

applications can be categorized into operational and strategic benefits.

Firstly, regarding the management of claims, big data implementation helps

alleviate conflicts among project stakeholders and streamlines the process,

thus reducing the time and resources expended by contract administrators

for on-site inspections. Secondly, in terms of project monitoring and control,

the integration of big data enables seamless communication and updates

between construction sites and headquarters, facilitating quick responses to

emerging issues and aiding in the identification of defects and their root

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causes. Ultimately, this contributes to achieving project objectives related to

time, cost, quality, and safety. Lastly, in the domain of procurement, big data

assists in the meticulous selection and awarding of contracts to capable

subcontractors, as well as in crafting competitive bids for projects (Atuahene

et. al., 2020).

Through these applications, big data transforms construction project

management by optimizing processes, improving decision-making, and

driving success across various fronts. Its integration enables construction

companies to leverage data-driven insights to streamline operations,

mitigate risks, and deliver successful projects in a competitive and dynamic

industry landscape.

Blockchain technology finds promising application in contract

management within the construction industry. Moreover, leveraging this

emerging technology enables more efficient management and analysis of

additional information, such as cost data. Given the multitude of contracts

and diverse entities involved in construction projects, the industry presents a

fertile ground for the integration of blockchain technology. Specifically,

within the construction project lifecycle, 'Project Cost/Change Management',

'Contract Bidding and Formation', and 'Procurement Evaluation' emerge as

prime candidates for blockchain application, offering significant potential

impact and applicability. A comprehensive evaluation of blockchain

technology's applicability and impact highlights 'Procurement Management'

and 'Cost Management' as primary areas within the Project Management

Institute's (PMI) knowledge domains, where blockchain technology can be

effectively employed (Kim et. al., 2020).

Overall, the adoption of blockchain technology in contract

management holds immense potential for driving innovation and efficiency in

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the construction industry. By embracing this technology, construction

companies can navigate complex contractual relationships more effectively,

minimize disputes, and optimize project outcomes.

The development of an algorithm for mapping the IFC-based 4D

construction management information model to the graph database-based

model enables seamless interoperability of construction management

information across various stakeholders, construction phases, and different

BIM software platforms. Additionally, it establishes the groundwork for

automating analysis within the graph-based model. Strategies have been

devised to automatically analyze schedule networks and identify delays. By

analyzing both the IFC-based and graph database-based construction

management models, tasks' centrality within the schedule network can be

determined, aiding in the identification of delays and facilitating better

control of the construction process by managers. Moreover, analyzing the

construction schedule provides essential insights for conducting in-depth

analysis and management of the construction process using both IFC and

graphical databases (Yang et. al., 2021).

Moreover, conducting in-depth analysis and management of the

construction process is facilitated by analyzing the construction schedule

using both IFC and graphical databases. This comprehensive approach

enables stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of project dynamics,

anticipate potential issues, and make informed decisions to ensure project

success. Overall, the development of this algorithm and its associated

strategies represents a significant step forward in enhancing the efficiency

and effectiveness of construction project management.

4. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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 In conclusion, the evolution and integration of database management

systems (DBMS) in various industries, particularly the construction sector,

offer immense potential for enhancing project management practices. As

outlined in the reviewed literature, the adoption of advanced technologies

such as big data analytics, cloud computing, and blockchain is instrumental

in optimizing data organization, collaboration among stakeholders, and

decision-making processes within construction projects. These

advancements enable real-time access to critical project information,

facilitate predictive analytics for risk management, and streamline

procurement strategies. By leveraging DBMS technologies effectively,

construction companies can enhance operational efficiency and drive project

success.

Moreover, embracing blockchain technology for contract management

presents a promising avenue for enhancing transparency, efficiency, and

trust within the construction industry. By leveraging blockchain's

decentralized ledger and smart contract capabilities, construction companies

can streamline contract execution, minimize disputes, and enhance overall

project governance. Furthermore, the development of interoperable

database models, as highlighted in recent research, underscores the

importance of standardization and automation in construction project

management. This approach enables seamless data exchange among

stakeholders and different Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms,

fostering greater interoperability and efficiency throughout the project

lifecycle.

Moving forward, it is recommended that construction firms prioritize

the adoption of modern DBMS technologies to capitalize on their

transformative potential. The utilization of cloud databases, for instance, can

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streamline data management processes, enhance collaboration among

dispersed teams, and ensure centralized access to project information. This

adoption should be coupled with investments in training and upskilling

employees to leverage these technologies effectively, fostering a data-driven

culture within the organization. Furthermore, the integration of big data

analytics can enable construction firms to gain actionable insights from vast

datasets, optimizing resource allocation, scheduling, and risk mitigation

strategies. In addition to technological advancements, it is essential for

construction firms to prioritize cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive

project data stored within DBMS platforms. This includes implementing

robust data encryption protocols, regular security audits, and employee

awareness programs to mitigate potential cyber threats. Ultimately,

concerted efforts towards technology adoption, cybersecurity, and research

collaborations will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of DBMS in

reshaping traditional construction practices and driving industry

performance.

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