Enhancing Construction Project Document Management with Mobile Apps

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the challenges faced by document management systems (DMS) in the construction industry and propose a solution that uses mobile apps to enhance document management in construction projects. This study aimed to identify the challenges and limitations of traditional document management methods and provide insights into the capabilities of mobile apps for streamlining document workflows and improving collaboration among construction professionals. A literature review was conducted to explore the challenges faced by DMS in the construction industry, such as managing paper documents, avoiding human errors, optimising workflows, and promoting collaboration. A literature review was conducted to investigate the availability, accessibility, and competencies of mobile apps for construction project document management. This study comprised four stages. In the first stage, relevant applications in the construction project document management domain were searched. In the second stage, apps are selected based on their functions, accessibility, and capabilities, making them suitable for managing construction project documents. The third stage involved examining apps to determine their specific functions. Finally, in the fourth stage, apps that were not tested in empirical studies were removed from the list of potential apps, and the functions of the remaining apps were discussed, drawing on empirical studies to support app developers’ claims. A comprehensive search led to the identification of 38 mobile apps relevant to document management of construction projects. Each app was carefully analysed based on its function, market popularity, relevance to construction, construction project document management, range of functions, and real-world efficacy. Based on rigorous analysis, 21 apps were selected for an in-depth study because of their relevance, user-friendliness, and compliance with project document management. These 21 apps collectively offer diverse functionalities for efficient document management, falling under broad categories, such as real-time access to project documents, user-friendly interfaces, and automation of document processes, resulting in enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration. This study underscores the potential of mobile apps to transform document-management practices in the construction industry.