This research project presented a framework for an integrated management system to use information from BIM and RFID to support iterative look-ahead planning processes to help major stakeholders shield material flows from negative impact by last-minute changes of design or schedule. To functionally demonstrate the framework, four functional modules were devised; (1) design-change module, (2) schedule-change module, (3) production module, and (4) transport module. They were linked via a central database system built for a common data environment.

This research project proposed a two-step transshipment approach to help the contractor to conduct lateral sharing of unused perishable materials in a project portfolio, where the supply and demand fluctuation could be well managed with minimal cost. The first step is to link 3D models in BIM authoring software with task information to calculate the daily net material supply and demand quantities regarding transshipment. The second step is to use this data to construct a math model, which aims to optimize the material quantities to be transshipped within the project portfolio.