Conceptual framework for decentralised information management along the entire lifecycle of a built asset

Abstract

The construction industry is characterised by a high level of fragmentation, inefficient collaboration and a lack of trust between project stakeholders. Issues due to the fragmented nature of the construction industry are extenuated from centralised Building Information Modelling approaches. Blockchain technology can help address information management issues by providing data traceability, transparency, and immutability. First, this paper reviews centralised and decentralised approaches to lifecycle information management. Second, a conceptual framework for decentralised information management workflow based on blockchain technology and the Inter-Planetary File System is proposed. Smart contracts can improve the information flow between different phases by providing more accountability.