Information Technology in Gaza Strip Construction Industry

Abstract

Construction is one of the most information-dependent industries compared to other sectors. Computers have been used to improve the efficiency of management in most businesses including the construction industry. Treating information efficiently is the key to maintaining an edge over competitors and for success in business. This study presents findings of a research project that explored the current state of the information technology (IT) applications in Gaza strip construction industry. These findings are based on a questionnaire survey conducted between October and November 2009 among randomly 80 Gaza strip construction industry organization. A total of 55 valid responses were received, representing a response rate of 68.75 % of those delivered. The survey focused on how respondents use information technology in their daily operations, including information flows among business partners, the use of computer hardware and software, IT expenditure and training, management supports, benefits of IT applications, and problems encountered. This research gives a general view of the current state of information technology applications among contractors, consultants, public owners and suppliers in Gaza strip, and provides first-hand information on how well respondents are aware of and have equipped themselves with this new technology. It also reveals that although information technology applications constitute what are probably the most visible technological changes in recent years, the local construction industry is quite conservative in their adoption and use. The main results, indicated that all of the participating organizations are using computers and fax machines in their business operations; almost all participants own CD writers and photocopier. Almost (100%) of the organizations use Microsoft Project for project planning and scheduling and some of the organizations use Primavera with (16.4%). (100%) of the organizations are using Microsoft Excel software for estimating purposes. (50%) of the respondents use accounting software such as Al-Assel and Alsehree . MS word and Excel are the most popular software for general administration purposes. Software for structure design and water systems are 5 used more than others. In general, most of the software used for structure purposes is PROKON, and STAAD. AutoCAD software shows the highest percentage of (94.5%) among the drawing software currently used in construction industry within Gaza strip. Most of the software used for Water system purposes is BENTLEY, and Hydraulic Cad. Microsoft operating systems with (100%) of the respondent contractors organizations use Microsoft Windows XP. The most important factors considered in selecting the software that all respondents select were user Simplicity in using program, Spread of the software, Availability of the software, and cost factors respectively. A large proportion of organizations do not have a web site on the Internet. 100% of the investigated public institutions, consultants, and contractors answered that they have a connection to the Internet. The most significant purpose of using internet is to send/ receive messages, which is (94.5%) and (83%) respectively of those with distribution of documentation to other organization that as a purpose. The most significant factor restricting the use of internet by the organizations is fear of losing sensitive information, identified by (87.3%) of those responding which revealed the importance of security of information sent using internet. respondents tend to agree that information technology will improve profits in the next five years with (RII = 0.8) and ranked first either agree or strongly agree with this prediction. It is suggested that construction industry organizations should have a more positive attitude toward using information technology; the industry as a whole should also take the initiative to promote IT - based communications among all professions within the industry; furthermore, the Palestine Government should take the initiative in promoting information technology applications in the local construction industry.