Context sensitive mobile devices in architecture, engineering and construction

The AEC & FM-sector1 is aware of the potentials arising from the usage of mobile technology in
construction for streamlining their business processes. Discussions are no longer on whether or not to use
mobile computer-supported solutions but, rather, on how they should be implanted and used. The following
publication describes an integrated, holistic framework for context-sensitive, mobile applications based on the
concept of Virtual Organisations, the pattern-based software development paradigm, and multi-dimensional
data management developed at the Dresden University of Technology. By applying this approach in early field
tests mobile technology became an integrated, complementing part of information systems and newly developed,
flexible, adaptable business scenarios instead of remaining just another fashionable toy used as an “add-on”
reflecting already existing business practices. The innovations presented in this paper rely on the Concept of the
Mobile Worker (CoMoWo) as well as of Mobile, Ambient Intelligent, Networked Environment (MAIN-E).
CoMoWo combines pattern definitions and a hierarchically structured layer concept to describe the
relationships and interdependencies among the individual patterns. CoMoWo will contribute to the development
of innovative methods and adaptive project management models. MAIN-E consists of a set of technology
components supporting CoMoWo, such as a multi-dimensional information framework, intelligent agents, and
location-based services. This will lead to a supportive IT-infrastructure mobile and fixed to provide information
on demand and in the right context to the mobile worker.