A group decision support system for implementing value management methodology in construction briefing

This paper describes a group decision support system (GDSS) developed in response to the need of a computer supported collaborative work environment for implementing the value management (VM) methodology in construction briefing. The GDSS is based on the VM methodology that allows a client to define and represent his or her requirements with functions and functional performance, to bring forward ideas to achieve the functions, and finally to evaluate and highlight the ideas against the functional performance for further development in design. The conceptual framework, design, implementation, use of the GDSS are addressed and described in that order. The system is complementally evaluated through a field study and an experimental study. It is concluded that the GDSS can effectively facilitate the implementation of VM in construction briefing. In addition, the GDSS has big potential to improve the performance of VM studies in terms of the enhanced participation and interaction, the shortened time for tasks, and the improved satisfaction with VM workshops. Research limitations and knowledge contribution of this study are also discussed.

Research Highlights
► We create a computer supported collaborative work environment for implementing value management in construction briefing.
► It is knowledge-based so that inexperienced briefing takers can easily retrieve, learn and use relevant knowledge from previous projects.
► It encourages participation of briefing team members, enhances interaction among them, and shortens time for VM studies.