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. The client-server system architecture was established to structure the functional modules of the logic layer, the integrated data layer and the user interface of the presentation layer. Unlike traditional IT-based supply chain management practices, this research is characterized by a process-centered management framework and provides explicit decision points over iterative planning processes for major stakeholders to manage material information. The iterations through digital data sharing allow stakeholders to quickly respond to last-minute changes on site, which fundamentally achieves workflow agility in the construction supply chain context.

The functional modules of the system were demonstrated using the construction of part of a fictive, but realistic high-rise building. The Monte Carlo simulation results show that the time spent for completing specific material flow processes can be significantly reduced (in the example by 18%) by using the integrated management framework to facilitate the coordination of design changes and schedule changes, compared to the traditional management framework. Although this is sufficient for the demonstration, it is not sufficient to show the extent of the possible improvement for entire construction projects. Future work should focus on investigating the possible improvements for other types of components and materials, other types and sizes of construction projects, and eventually in real-world construction projects. In addition, various contractual types and additional supply chain roles (e.g., third party logistic providers) will be investigated together with the real-world implementation. Agent-based modeling and discrete event simulations could be studied to reveal the process dynamics and the interactions between the major stakeholders during collaboration.