Mobile Computing Benefits for Construction Projects

Mobile Computing in Construction
An Investigation into the potential benifits of
implementing Mobile Computers on large scale
construction projects
By
Eoin Healy
Dissertation submitted to the School of Engineering
Waterford Institute of Technology
In partial fulfilment of the requirement for
The Degree of Bachelor of Science
in Construction Management and Engineering.
March 2013

[i]
Declaration
I declare that this dissertation, in whole or in part, has not been submitted to any other
University as an exercise for a degree. I further declare that, except where reference is
made for the text, the contents are entirely my own work. The author aggress that the
library may lend or copy the thesis upon request for study purposes, subject to the normal
conditions of acknowledgement.
Eoin Healy
March 2013

[ii]
Dissertation Word Count
720
5617
1139
4378
2215
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Case Study
Conclusions and
Recommendations

[iii]
Table of Contents
Declaration..................................................................................................................i
Dissertation Word Count .........................................................................................ii
Table of Contents .....................................................................................................iii
List of Figures...........................................................................................................vi
List of Tables ...........................................................................................................vii
List of Abbreviations .............................................................................................viii
Preface.......................................................................................................................ix
Executive Summary .................................................................................................X
Acknowledgments .................................................................................................. XI
1 Introduction.........................................................................................................1
1.1 Dissertation Introduction...............................................................................1
1.2 Research Aims & Objectives ........................................................................2
1.3 Hypothesis.....................................................................................................2
1.4 Dissertation Content......................................................................................3
2 Literature Review................................................................................................4
2.1 Introduction...................................................................................................4
2.2 Mobile Computing ........................................................................................5
2.2.1 Definition of Mobile Computing ...............................................................5
2.3 Technological Characteristics of Mobile Computing ...................................6
2.3.1 Mobile Computer ......................................................................................7
2.3.2 Mobile Application..................................................................................12
2.3.3 Wireless Network ....................................................................................21
2.4 Mobile Computing In Construction ............................................................25
2.4.1 Why Use Mobile Computing ...................................................................25

[iv]
2.4.2 Potential Uses .........................................................................................28
2.4.3 Training...................................................................................................30
2.4.4 Implementation........................................................................................31
2.4.5 Return on Investment ..............................................................................32
2.5 Case Studies ................................................................................................33
2.5.1 King’s Cross Implementation of Mobile Computers...............................33
2.6 Summary .....................................................................................................35
3 Methodology ......................................................................................................36
3.1 Introduction.................................................................................................36
3.2 Primary Information:...................................................................................37
3.3 Methods of Primary Information Gathering ...............................................39
3.3.1 Case Study...............................................................................................39
3.3.2 Interviewing ............................................................................................40
3.4 Secondary Information................................................................................41
3.5 Summary .....................................................................................................42
4 Case Study .........................................................................................................43
4.1 Introduction.................................................................................................43
4.2 Project Team ...............................................................................................44
4.2.1 Team Introduction...................................................................................44
4.2.2 The Mobile Computer .............................................................................47
4.2.3 The User..................................................................................................54
4.2.4 Personnel Opinion ..................................................................................60
4.3 Findings.......................................................................................................63
4.4 Summary .....................................................................................................64
5 Conclusions and Recommendations................................................................65
5.1 Hypothesis...................................................................................................65
5.2 Conclusions.................................................................................................66

[v]
5.3 Limitations ..................................................................................................71
5.4 Recommendations.......................................................................................72
5.4.1 John Sisk & Sons.....................................................................................73
5.4.2 The Irish and UK Construction Industry ................................................74
5.4.3 Further Research ....................................................................................75
6 Bibliography ......................................................................................................76
Appendix A: (Dissertation Proposal) ...................................................................... B
Appendix B: (Sample Dissertation Meeting)........................................................... E

[vi]
List of Figures
Figure 1: Framework of using mobile computing .....................................................6
Figure 2: Rugged Tablet .............................................................................................8
Figure 3: Rugged Smartphone ....................................................................................8
Figure 4: Concept of CMS........................................................................................15
Figure 5: Procedure of CMS .....................................................................................15
Figure 6: Framework of internal and external construction supply chain ................16
Figure 7: Managing quality in the field with Vela Systems Checklist Software......17
Figure 8: Field personnel scan barcode to access equipment-specific documentation
and data ...........................................................................................................................18
Figure 9: Long range Wireless Networks .................................................................21
Figure 10: Percentage of Population Coverage of 3G Broadband............................22
Figure 11: Average Broadband Speed by Country ...................................................23
Figure 12: Breakdown of Contractor rework............................................................25
Figure 13: Comparison of Productivity.....................................................................26
Figure 14: Time Breakdown of a Foreman’s Jobsite Activities ...............................27
Figure 15: Framework for using mobile computing .................................................28
Figure 16: Cost and benefit of Mobile Computing devices......................................32
Figure 17: Wireless Network Cell ............................................................................34

[vii]
List of Tables
Table 1: Comparison of Mobile computing Requirements.........................................7
Table 2: Types of Mobile Computer Devices (Hass, et al., 2002)..............................9
Table 3: Common Specification of Handheld Computers (Hass, et al., 2002).........10
Table 4: Comparison of Tablet Computers available on the market ........................11
Table 5: Mobile Computing Software available for the Construction Industry........12
Table 6: Comparison of Various Software available on the market in 2013............13
Table 7: Advantages of implementing Latista .........................................................19
Table 8: Comparison of CQM program on two previous Eli Lilly projects.............20
Table 9: Comparison of Mobile Broadband Provides...............................................24
Table 10: Potential Benefits of mobile IT on a Construction Project.......................29
Table 11: Cost analysis for King's Cross Implementation........................................34
Table 12: Primary and secondary research explained...............................................36
Table 13: Qualitative versus Quantitative Research.................................................37
Table 14: Different types of Interviews ....................................................................40
Table 15: Site activities that could be improved through the usage of mobile
computers........................................................................................................................68

[viii]
List of Abbreviations
2D Two Dimensional
3D Three Dimensional
3G Third Generation
4G Fourth Generation
BIM Building Information Modelling
CAD Computer Aided Design
CCGT Combined Cycle Gas Turbine
CMS Concrete curing Management System
ConSCM Construction Supply Chain Management System
GB Gigabyte
I.T. Information Technology
ICT Information and Communications Technology
ISP Internet Service Provider
LAN Local Area Network
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
MB Megabyte
OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
OS Operating System
PC Personnel Computer
PDA Personal Digital Assistant
PDF Portable Document Format
QA Quality Assurance
QC Quality Control
RAM Random Access Memory
ROI Return of Investment
RFI Request for Information
SD Secure Digital
USB Universal Serial Bus
WLAN Wireless Local Area Network
WAN Wide Area Network
WWAN Wireless Wide Area Network

[ix]
Preface
As part of fourth year of BSc. (Honours) in Construction Management & Engineering,
it is mandatory that the author carry out a dissertation on a particular subject of their
choice relevant to the construction industry. As part of the Construction Management &
Engineering course, the author took part in a five month industrial placement with a
leading civil engineering company in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Coupled with a strong interest in both construction and computers, the author took an
interest in this area of how a construction site could be managed better in terms of
information availability and transfer. The author envisages a construction company that
may implement the use of mobile computers onto its employees allowing real time,
accurate and on-site information to be available at all times. In doing this, it is hoped that
construction projects will run smoother, cut down on paper usage and time delays that
eventually build up, and can all be reduced through the implementation of mobile
computing solutions.

[X]
Executive Summary
Title: Mobile computing in construction
Sub-Title: An investigation into the potential implementation of Mobile
Computers on large civil engineering projects
Researcher: Eoin Healy
Supervisor: Brian Graham
Submission Date: March 2013
Purpose:
The dissertation topic was chosen following the researcher’s industrial experience
working with one of Ireland’s leading contractors. Where the lack of information
available to engineers on site was a cause of errors and time wastage due to a lack of
information available to engineers and also to failing to sign off on inspections and
handover documents. The aim of this dissertation is to evaluate the potential for
implementing mobile computing devices into large scale construction projects
Methodology:
The author conducted a comprehensive literature review which analysed and made
comparison between available literatures specifically relating to mobile devices within
the authors chosen topic. The findings of the literature review, namely information
transfer on site, durability of mobile computers and the size of the mobile devices,
provided a platform of information from which the basis of the primary research was
based on. The methodology used to conduct the primary research was a case study, in the
form of semi-structured interviews with project personnel was carried out on former site
personnel working at Pembroke Power Station in South West Wales. The interviewees
included the Contracts Manager, Site Agent, EHS Officer and two Site Engineers.
Findings:
The secondary and primary research identified that there is a strong reliance on office
based computers at present in terms of communications and information storage. The
interviews showed a strong interest in the field of mobile computing. With most
individuals interviewed agreed that a trial phase of using mobile computers on site would
be the best option for implementation. The mobile computers should be implemented to
select project members before gradual expansion to all project members. Site activities
that may be improved by mobile computers were identified and include; allocation sheets,
quality control, RFI’s, snag/punch lists, safety checks, material control and on-site
signatures. Based on the research the mobile computers should be implemented on a pilot
basis, starting off modestly and then expanding. The recommendations developed from
the case study, will hopefully entice the company to consider implementing mobile
computers on a trial basis. It is hoped that by doing this, the benefits of better
communications and information will be seen, leading to a long term solution. The
research established that there is a strong potential for mobile computers within
construction, and it was recommended that a company such as Sisk should co-ordinate
with a professional organization such as CITA for advice on the implementation of mobile
computing solutions.

[XI]
Acknowledgments
My first and most important acknowledgements go to the primary research interview
participants who contributed to this research, all of whom gave generously their time to
participate in interviews and discussions.
Special thanks go to my tutor Dr Brian Graham at Waterford Institute of Technology
for his guidance, help in developing the interview questions and also support during the
research and compilation of the dissertation.
I am also grateful to the course lecturers for their time and effort in delivering quality
courses in both Civil Engineering and Construction Management and Engineering.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow classmates for their input
into various projects as part of my college work and I wish them all the best in their
professional careers.
Most of all I would like to thank my parents, family and friends for their support, help
and understanding over the last five years
Finally I would like to thank Finbarr for taking time out of his busy schedule to proof
read this dissertation and providing feedback where necessary.

1.0 Introduction
[1]
1 Introduction
1.1 Dissertation Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to give an overview of the dissertation, the aim of which
is to investigate the potential of implementing mobile computing devices into the
construction stage of large scale projects.
The construction industry already relies on computers for communication purposes,
along with information storage and file backup. However in saying this, there are a
number of areas where the traditional method of pen and paper is still being used.
However as Rebolj & Menzel (2004,b, p. 281) suggest that “the potential of mobile
computing has not yet been fully recognized.” and that this potential is not implemented
on a broad basis in the construction industry.
For instance on a large scale construction project, the site office may be some distance
from the point of work on a project. Therefore, it is not unusual for site engineer, foremen
or various different professionals having to travel to and from the site office to the work
face on numerous occasions because of missing or conflicting information. All this
unnecessary travel wastes time and can eventually lead to problems with communication,
the cause of disputes due to a lack of information or conflicting information from working
to outdated specifications or drawings.
According to White (2007, p. 18) “The success of a large-scale construction project
depends heavily on the ability of managers to access up-to-date information.”
With the rapid advancement in computing technologies in the past number of years,
with devices becoming smaller and more powerful, it is possible that aspects of the
construction industry can be improved from the implementation of mobile computing
devices such as tablet PC’s or smartphones. As mobile computers have the potential to
create an I.T. infrastructure that would enable access to construction information
throughout the construction site.
This dissertation aims to evaluate the potential for implementing mobile computing
devices on large scale construction projects.

1.0 Introduction
[2]
1.2 Research Aims & Objectives
The aim of this dissertation is to evaluate the potential for implementing mobile
computing devices into large scale construction projects.
This shall be achieved through the following objectives:
 To evaluate the necessary literature concerning the topic of mobile computing
specifically in relation to the construction industry.
 To identify processes on construction sites that can be improved from the
application of mobile computing solutions.
 To investigate the potential for mobile computing on large scale construction
projects by conducting a case study on Sisk UK at Pembroke CCGT
PowerStation
 To identify the attitude of construction personnel towards computers and the
possible barriers to implementing mobile computing devices into construction.
 To make recommendations based on the finding of this dissertation and
identify areas of possible further research relating to the case study and the
construction industry in general.
1.3 Hypothesis
Throughout this dissertation the following hypothesis shall be investigated.
“If large scale construction projects are to be completed more efficiently, then
construction companies should consider implementing mobile computing solutions.”

1.0 Introduction
[3]
1.4 Dissertation Content
The following is a summary of the contents of this dissertation.
Chapter 2. Literature Review
This chapter looks at previous literature conducted on the topic of mobile computing
and the implementation of mobile devices into the construction industry. Within this
chapter, mobile computing is defined and the research outlines past case studies
conducted into mobile computing, along with information pertaining to the construction
of mobile computing devices particularly in relation to hardware, software and
networking.
Chapter 3. Methodology
This chapter contains the research methodology, which explains the procedure that
was used in the gathering of primary and secondary information research and the reason
in which these methods were chosen.
Chapter 4. Case Study
This chapter presents the primary research. It contains the results of the survey and
interview conducted amongst Sisk personnel at Pembroke PowerStation in south-west
Wales. It also contains interviews with the project team located at Sisk Ireland head
offices in Cork.
Chapter 5. Conclusions and Recommendations
This chapter presents the conclusions and recommendations that the author has come
to as a result of the research which was carried out. It identifies how each of the objectives
was achieved and examines whether or not the hypothesis is proved or disproved.
Following the conclusion the author outlines the limitations incurred in the research. The
author makes recommendation on what has been discovered from the research.

2.0 Literature Review
[4]
2 Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
The construction industry at present relies on a large amount of information to
successfully complete projects. Computers are a major part of everyday activities and the
construction industry is now very dependent on computers to store vast amounts of
information. Most of this construction information is in the form of drawings,
specifications, health and safety documentation, minutes of meetings, Operational and
Maintenance manuals, etc. Computers are also used for communication purposes and to
design projects ranging from roads to buildings and to simulate design loads and stresses
on buildings, computing mass haul requirements for roadway design to simulating flows
and pressures of underground drainage networks.
On site computers are primarily used to receive e-mailed copies of drawings, typing
out of minutes of meetings, sending e-mails. Most of these tasks involve being at the
computer in the site office rather than on the site directly engaging with the personnel. At
present the construction industry relies on paper information for many aspects.
As well as using computers for design works construction firms have implemented
computers in planning project duration and costs using project management software and
also for communicating through the use of e-mails.
However there are areas of construction that have the potential to be improved upon
by adopting and utilizing mobile computing devices. If the on-site construction
information is properly structured and laid out then basic training is required in order to
use and access this information which can then be quickly accessed by site management
using devices such as tablet computers or smartphones providing these devices have the
potential to access up to date construction information directly from the construction site.
This literature review aims to source information from past studies in the
implementation of mobile computing devices in construction, while defining mobile
computing and identifying potential uses for mobile computing devices in the
construction industry.
The following section will outline some of the definitions relating to mobile
computers.

[5]
2.2 Mobile Computing
2.2.1 Definition of Mobile Computing
Kajewski & Alwi (2006, p. 384) defines ‘Mobile Computing’ as a “generic term
describing the application of small, portable, and wireless computing and communication
devices.”
The term of ‘Mobile Computing’ is defined by Rebolj & Menzel (2004,b, p. 281) as
“Computers which can be used indoors and outdoors while the user is in motion. This
excludes conventional notebooks but includes tablet PCs and all kinds of pocket
computers, palmtops and wearable computers.”
It can be seen from the preceding definitions that mobile computing comprises of
small, portable devices with wireless communication capabilities that can be used in
motion, such as Tablet PC’s, pocket computers and wearable computers.
The subsequent sections will outline the technological aspects of mobile computing
devices.

[6]
2.3 Technological Characteristics of Mobile Computing
This section aims to identify the main technological issues regarding mobile
computers being introduced in to construction industry.
Figure 1: The Framework of using mobile computing in on-site information management (Chen & Kamara,
2008)
As can be seen in Figure 1 the term mobile computing encompasses three aspects
these are the mobile computer, mobile application and wireless network. These aspects
will be discussed in detail in the subsequent pages.

[7]
2.3.1 Mobile Computer
Menzel et al. (2004, p. 392) suggests that “There are several environmental
restrictions that might impact the usage of mobile devices in the field.” These range from
“the natural weather conditions like heavy rains, frosty and cold temperatures, sunlight
etc.” to “the type of construction site such as a bridge, road or building.”
Therefore because the mobile computer will be subjected to all the harsh
environments of the construction industry, a rugged computer would be more suited to
the construction site.
Yuan & Kamara (2011) proposes that the mobile computers should have particular
features such as rugged screens, have necessary water and dust protection along with a
long battery life in order to support long periods of on-site time. These features are similar
to some of the characteristics that Hass et al. (2002) and Kimoto et al. (2005) outline in
Table 1 below.
(Hass, et al., 2002) (Kimoto, et al., 2005)
Battery Must have a long battery life Continuous Computing Environment
Display Must have a display visible in sunlight Expressivity of Display
Hardware
Must be rugged
Durability of Hardware
Must be intrinsically safe if necessary
Mobility
Must attach to a belt
Mobility of Hardware
Must be lightweight
Must be mobile
Must fit in the palm of one hand
OS
Must be easy to operate
Operability of User Interface
Must have a suitable interface
Speed Must have sufficient memory Processing Speed
Usage Must be multi-functional
Compatibility of Hardware and OS
Stability of System
Compatibility of Data between the Mobile and PC
Table 1: Comparison of Mobile computing Requirements
Comparing the data in Table 1 it can be assumed that mobile devices such as rugged
laptops would be best applied to this purpose.
However Wilson (2005, p. 16) states “Ever try carrying a laptop up a ladder? How
about just using a laptop while standing”

[8]
Therefore taking Wilsons statement into account the author chose to focus on
mobile devices such as Smartphones and Tablet computers, rugged examples of which
are visible below.
Figure 2: Rugged Tablet (MOBEXX, 2012,b)
Figure 3: Rugged Smartphone (MOBEXX, 2012,a)
These are only but two examples of rugged mobile devices, as there are hundreds of
different models, each with different screen sizes, input methods, memory and storage
space, processing power, etc. In essence rugged computers preform the same as non-
rugged computers. The only difference is the size and shape of the case coupled with the
added weight of the rugged case.

[9]
Type Typical Features Picture
PDA
(personal digital
assistant)
Fits in the user’s palm
Used primarily as a personal information manager (e.g..
address book and calendar)
Monochrome display
Max resolution 160 x 160 pixels
Handheld PC.
Pocket PC.
Palm-Size PC
Larger than a PDA
Fits in the user’s palm
Wide range of applications
Colour display
Palm-Top
Larger than a handheld
Fits on top of the user’s palm Includes a built-in keyboard
Wide range of applications
Colour display
Sub- Notebook
Smaller than full-size notebooks but larger than palm-top
PC' s
More features than handheld and palm- top PC’s (e.g.,
hard drive or built-in digital camera)
Colour display
Tablet
Largest of the mobile PC' s
No keyboard
Similar functionality to a full-size
notebook PC'
Colour display
Table 2: Types of Mobile Computer Devices (Hass, et al., 2002)
It can be seen from Table 2 that there are many different types of mobile computers
available. Since the publication of this information in 2002 by Hass et al. advances in
mobile technology have led to the amalgamation of several of the devices shown in Table
2. These devices are mainly the PDA, Handheld PC and Palm-Top have merged together
into what is more commonly known today as a smartphone an example of this
amalgamation can be seen in Figure 3. This is true with Rebolj & Menzel (2004,b) stating
that “Further developments have led to the amalgamation of mobile computing devices
and mobile telecommunications protocols, with PDA’s now available with integrated
mobile connectivity or via a separate mobile phone, through either a wired or wireless
connection such as Bluetooth.”

[10]
In Table 3 below Hass et al. (2002) outlines recommendations and the most
common physical specifications which are required for mobile computing devices in the
year 2002. These specifications outlined below in Table 3 are commonly found in devices
such as in Figure 2 and Figure 3 while most of these specifications are correct some have
been upgraded since Hass, et al outlined the specification in 2002.
Specification Possible Options
Audio
Built-in Microphone Stereo
Built-in Speaker Mono
Headphones jack Mic. jack
Batteries Chemical Type (lead-acid, etc.) Life
Rechargeable Backup
Cradle Yes/No
Expansion Slot Type
Compact Flash PC Card
Memory Stick Smart Card
Multimedia Card Springboard
Input Interface
Touch Screen Keyboard
Handwriting Recognition Stylus
I/O Ports
Infra-Red Modem
USB VGA
Serial Parallel
Lid/Cover Yes/No
Memory/Storage
RAM (random access memory) Cache
ROM (read only memory) Expandable
Operating Ruggedness
Shock Resistant Dust Seal
Humidity Seal Temperature
Operating System Window CE Palm OS
Processor Architecture Type Speed
Physical Dimensions
Length Weight
Width Thickness
Screen
Pixel size (dot pitch) Sidelight
Viewable Size Backlight
Colour Depth LCD Type (reflective, etc.) Resolution
Wireless Capability Yes/No
Table 3: Common Specification of Handheld Computers (Hass, et al., 2002)
Most of these advances have been in the field of wireless technologies and operating
systems which as installed onto the device, however with the advances in touchscreen
technology and the advances in processing power of the CPU while using lower amounts
of electrical current, has allowed in the design of the devices seen in Table 4.

[11]
iPad Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 Microsoft Surface
Image
3G Capabilities Yes (Selected Models) Yes (Selected Models) Yes (Selected Models)
Battery Life 10 Hrs 8 Hrs 8 Hrs
Bluetooth Yes Yes Yes
Camera
5megapixel (rear)
1.2megapixel (front)
5megapixel (rear)
1.9megapixel (front)
Yes
(Front & Rear)
Display Resolution 2048*1536 1280*800 1366*768
Expansion Ports No MicroSD Usb + MicroSD
Input Interface Touchscreen Touchscreen + Stylus Touchscreen + Stylus
Memory (RAM) 1GB 2GB 2GB
Operating System iOS Android Windows 8
Physical Dimensions
(width, height, thickness)
190mm,243mm,14mm 262mm, 180mm, 8.9mm 275mm,172mm, 9.4mm
Processor 1GHz (Dual Core) 1.4GHz (Quad Core) 1.3GHz (Quad Core)
Screen Size 9.7 Inch 10.1 Inch 10.6 Inch
Storage (Hard-Drive) 16-64GB 16-64GB 64GB
USB Host No Yes Yes
Weight (Grams) 652 600 680
Wi-Fi Capability Yes Yes Yes
Cost >€ 459 >€ 479 >€ 479
Table 4: Comparison of Tablet Computers available on the market
The specifications in Table 4 were obtained from the manufactures websites.
Comparing the specifications in both Table 3 & Table 4 it is clear that while some of
the specifications are similar, others such as Infra-Red, modems and serial cables are now
considered obsolete and have been replaced with Wi-Fi. While specifications such as
screen size has increased compared to 2002 along with the pixel density of the devices.
The following section will detail some of the software available for mobile computers
used in the construction industry.

[12]
2.3.2 Mobile Application
“The use of appropriate software for the task of recording and accessing data is also
an important factor (Ward, et al., 2004).” Therefore providing a construction firm has
the mobile devices to use on-site, these devices are effetely useless unless equipped with
the appropriate programs for the task at hand.
From a study conducted by Hass et al. (2002) of the software applications available
on the handheld computer market today, over three handheld computer software titles are
available for the health industry. In contrast, only approximately forty titles were found
to be suited specifically toward the construction industry.
Product Description Author
Autodesk
Onsite
CAD viewing and updating software Autodesk
Construction
Scan
Construction employee time tracking Bosnian Technologies
CoviLink
Portable data collection and transmission system for Primavera's
Expedition 6.0
Covi Systems, Inc.
Field Solutions Field inspection and service software
River Run Software
Group
PocketCAD Pro Full CAD software Arc Second
PocketCAD
View
CAD viewing software Arc Second
Survey Pro CE Survey data collection software, hardware
Tripod Data Systems.
Inc.
Time to Time Time tracking for contractors, lawyers, etc. Tom Thumb Software
Updater Schedule updating software (interfaces with Primavera) Solvo Systems, Inc.
Table 5: Various Mobile Computing Software available for the Construction Industry (Hass, et al., 2002)
Table 5 above outlines nine software programs available for the Windows CE
Platform, specifically designed for the construction industry. As stated there are forty
programs available for the construction industry according to the research conducted by
Hass et al. (2002), however in the decade since this research was conducted there is many
more programs available today some of which are outlined in Table 6.

[13]
Software iOS Android
Web-
Based
Description
AutoCAD WS Y Y Y
Allows for the opening and editing of AutoCAD
files stored either on the device or in a cloud storage
BuilderTREND Y N Y
BuilderTREND provides real-time access to
scheduling information, change orders, documents,
photos, warranty management, homebuyer
selections, and much more.
Computerguidance N N Y
The most complete, proven and reliable construction
ERP solution which consists of a variety of tools
Corecon V7 N N Y
Corecon V7 is a web-based suite of software for
estimating, project management, job cost control,
scheduling, and collaboration
Cortado Y Y N
Cortado offers advanced print technology plus
instant access to the enterprise cloud and a variety of
output.
EADOC N N Y
EADOC connects facility owners, construction
managers, contractors, architects, sub consultants,
sub-contractors and suppliers together so they can
securely share and exchange construction project
information electronically.
e-Builder Enterprise N N Y
e-Builder Enterprise, improves capital project
execution resulting in increased productivity and
quality, reduced cost, and faster project delivery.
IDEALScanroom N N Y
IDEALScanroom is a secure, web-based plan room
for online construction project management.
Interneer N N Y
Interneer provides companies of various sizes, the
simplest and quickest way to automate business
process and workflow with the Intellect Platform.
Jonas N N Y
Jonas Construction Software is a Job Cost, Service
Management, Accounting package that brings
together all business units and establishes
efficiencies for your business.
Pacific Timesheet
Software
Y N Y
Pacific Timesheet software provides web-based
payroll timesheet, project time tracking, and time off
management, time and attendance features in one
system.
Paskr N N Y
The Paskr "Project Management Suite" gives Project
Managers the tool to bridge the gap between
estimating and accounting with less effort while
promoting detailed and consistent reporting.
Procore Y Y Y
Procore gives the user the ability to track and
manage the construction project information. This
software can be used on all types of projects.
pro-Forms N N Y
Allows for the creations and publishing of business
forms to mobile devices including BlackBerry,
Nokia (Java devices) and Windows Mobile.
Compatible with all major accounting, finance,
CRM, ERP and database systems.
Projectmates N N Y
Projectmates provides an easy to use web-based
interface for submitting requests, managing project
budgets and contracts.
Sharepoint N N Y
FusionEnterprise offers on site document
management; project collaboration solutions that
focus on enhancing an organization's chosen
enterprise content management system.
Spectrum Construction
Software
N N Y
Dexter + Chaney Construction Software integrates
28 modules that include Job Cost, Document
Imaging, Construction Accounting, Equipment
Management, Human Resources, Project
Management, Service and Dispatch.
Table 6: Comparison of Various Software available on the market in 2013(Getapp, 2013)

[14]
Comparing the software available from the research conducted by Hass et.al in 2002
as can be seen in Table 5 with that of the software currently available in Table 6. It is
clear that the Windows CE platform is no longer being developed. However with the
emergence of tablets with operating systems running iOS and Android, tablet computers
have gained in popularity and with the advances in broadband speeds allows users the
possibility of using cloud based services to access relevant programs from a device
connected to the internet.
Based on the research conducted by Chen & Kamara in (2008) identified based on
commercially available products and research that mobile computing programs can be
classified into three categories.
1) Mobile CAD applications
2) Data Capture applications
3) Project Management applications

[15]
1) Mobile CAD applications
According to Chen & Kamara (2008) mobile Computer Aided Design (CAD)
application enables mobile devices equipped with such programs the potential to access
2D/3D drawings, this enables the mobile device user to view, mark-up, edit and
collaborate on the design from anywhere on the construction site at any time. Although
most mobile Computer Aided Design applications are available on operating systems,
such as iOS and Android, an example of software available for these systems being
AutoCAD WS.
2) Data Capture applications
According to Chen & Kamara (2008) there are three types of data capture
applications:
I. Wireless Sensor Networks
II. Data Capture
III. Bar Code Scanning
i. Wireless sensor network
According to Chen & Kamara (2008, p. 10) a wireless sensor network is a network
“that consists of various devices capable of a cooperative sensing task is a new innovative
technology similar to the concept of ubiquitous computing.” From the research conducted
by Lee et al. (2006) a mass concrete curing management system (CMS) has been
developed. By using the developed CMS system allows for the collection and monitoring
of the curing temperatures of the concrete in real time, by sending the information across
a wireless network to the construction manager to analyse and interpret.
Figure 4: Concept of CMS
Figure 5: Procedure of CMS

[16]
ii. Data capture
SHERPA is an example of a data capture program, according to Ward et al. (2004) it
was used extensively for piling work. In which the piling managers/site engineers were
supplied with mobile devices which enabled the collection real time piling data in the
field through a WLAN network.
iii. Bar Code Scanning
According to Tserng & Dzeng (2005, p. 242) “A bar-code-enabled PDA application,
named the Mobile Construction Supply Chain Management system (M-ConSCM)”, has
been developed to improve and enhance “the information flow between offices and sites
in a construction supply chain environment.”
Figure 6: Framework of internal and external construction supply chain
3) Project Management applications
Project management application allow for the planning or programming of on-site
activities in order to streamline the project duration and save on overall build time.
Applications such as Microsoft Project file view allow the user of the mobile application
to view and update the program schedule from their mobile computer, before syncing the
file back to the master file on the desktop computer. According to Chen & Kamara (2008)
some available commercial applications include Primavera Mobile Management, CY
tools, and OnSite FDM.
Software is probably the most significant feature that will have to be considered if a
construction company prepares to implement mobile computing into their projects.
However there are many packages that can significantly reduce the paper trail involved.

[17]
Quality Assurance and Quality Control Software
i. Autodesk®
BIM 360™
Field
Formerly known as Vela Systems is a series of software applications for
desktop/laptop computers to mobile devices such as tablet computers or smartphones.
This provides a contractor the ability to manage Quality Assurance and Quality Control
(QA/QC) or snaglists/punchlists more effectively on site. With this system contractors
were able to eliminate the usage of paper-based quality checklists, by replacing the pen
and paper with pen and tablet pc.
This tablet allows for the user to mark-up snags on site using the mobile computer
and providing that an internet connection is available for the mobile device then
construction information is automatically uploaded for the managers to observe. Also this
system allows for the closing of snags in real time as once the item has been inspected it
can be signed closed on the tablet and logged on the punchlist of the project.
“As contractors, we only get paid to put it in once. If we have to do it again, it
significantly impacts the bottom line. –Steve Braverman, Project Executive at Rosendin
Electric. (Vela Systems, 2011)”
Figure 7: Managing quality in the field with Vela Systems Checklist Software (Vela Systems, 2009)
This software system also allows for the completion of inspections, worklists and field
reports on the mobile devices while on-site. This system also has the capability of using
barcodes placed on equipment on site once the software package is programed with the
correct information in relation to the specific bar code.

[18]
Then important information can be gathered by using a mobile computer by simply
scanning a barcode on site the software will retrieve all necessary information in relation
to this particular barcode. An example of this can be seen in Figure 8.
Figure 8: Field personnel scan barcode to access equipment-specific documentation and data (Vela Systems,
2010)
Vela Systems has the potential to provide benefits to streamline the handover of
projects to the client, especially in relation to punchlists. The following points offer some
of the benefits of using vela systems software
 More measureable approach to quality
 Immediately obtain Quality control documentation from projects
 Avoid claims by providing an audit trail of the progress in a project
 Reduction in rework
 Reduction in time of project duration due to disorganization of field
information

[19]
ii. Latista
Latista is a software package capable of monitoring quality on site through the use of
quality management and field-automation software. Latista was implemented on the Eli
Lilly Manufacturing Plant in Kinsale, Co. Cork during the construction process. This
software was implemented by the Client Eli Lilly due to poor quality of construction in a
previous manufacturing plant which resulted in the following issues:
 Delays in commissioning and qualification (C&Q)
 Increased costs associated with facilities opening late
 Risks associated with faulty systems
Following from these issues Eli Lilly designed a Construction Quality Management
(CQM) program to meet their needs in quality and documentation goals on the Kinsale
project and future projects.
"CQM is not a given. It must be an expectation for the contractor. Activities must be
measured and reported on so that performance can be improved. Bruce Beck, Director
of Global Facilities at Eli Lilly & Co. (Latista, 2012)"
By using Latista's mobile and web-based platform Eli Lilly was able to implement
its CQM program which enabled the Kinsale project the following benefits.
Improved Rework Improved Schedule Improved Budget Improved Quality
Rework savings of 46%,
an estimated $4.3 million
Rework addressed by
contractors, not Lilly
Project delivered 2.5
months ahead of schedule
Issues identified during
construction, not
operations
Under budget on C&Q
delivery Under budget on
overall project cost
Only 54 of 10,000 identified
issues (0.54%) affected
C&Q Zero punchlist items
open at final turnover
Table 7: Advantages of implementing Latista
Latista gave Eli Lilly the ability on the Kinsale project to view the quality and
corrective trends by comparing the performances of the subcontractors on the site. This
enabled Eli Lilly to assess the strengths and weakness of its subcontractors on site, this
information allowed Eli Lilly to address and improve its internal practices while
improving their CQM program for future projects.
The success of the Latista's CQM program demonstrated the effectiveness of Latista
in projects. As it allowed project teams to identify and correct problems as they occurred,
preventing rework by contractors before the commissioning stage began. This resulted in

[20]
the ability to identify and resolve 78% of deficiencies where 66% of which would have
affected the commissioning and transfer of the plant from the project team to Lilly.
By implementing Latista into the Kinsale project, Eli Lilly was able to finish the
project at a faster rate and with a lower cost.
This increase in effectiveness of the Latista program can be seen in the table below:
Similar Project Kinsale Project
CQM Program None LAT1STA based
C&Q Peak Staff 70 29
C&Q Cost (as % of Total Installed Cost) 10% <4%
C&Q Duration (months) 11.4 7.1
Final Result Over budget Under budget
Table 8: Comparison of CQM program on two previous Eli Lilly projects
"Construction Quality Management can be a culture change. It must start with a
fundamental commitment by leadership to instil quality principles into every aspect of the
business. Bruce Beck, Director of Global Facilities at Eli Lilly & Co. (Latista, 2012)"

[21]
2.3.3 Wireless Network
According to (Brilakis, 2006) “Wireless networks are gradually replacing wired local
area networks as the standard for data communications” and “in many cases,
construction sites are not conveniently located for wired deployment.” Figure 9 below
depicts how Brilakis views how a mobile network could be implemented between a
construction firm’s main office and the construction site:
Figure 9: Long range Wireless Networks (Brilakis, 2006)
It can be seen in Figure 9 that by implementing the right wireless local area network
(WLAN) on the construction site. Management and engineers on site could potential
communicate in real time, by coupling this to Wide Area Networks (WAN) the on-site
personnel would have a direct link to the head office. (Malaga, 2005) Defines a Wide
Area Network as “A WAN consist of at least two LANs that are geographically separate
but linked through a public telecommunications network, a leased phone line, or a
satellite”
This wide area network may prove more cost effective than “deploying a wired
network that spans, for example, from the contractor’s office to the remote, rural location
can be a very costly and time consuming solution.” (Brilakis, 2006) This wide area
network as described by Malaga (2005) is currently in place as, “it is not uncommon for
today’s organisations to have offices in many countries and on many continents. These
organisations require computer networks that can operate over these distances.”

[22]
However “such infrastructure and utilities providers are not always available or
cannot meet the needs of the project.” (Brilakis, 2006, p. 153) Mobile broadband
providers currently have this infrastructure and utilities in-place to meet the need of
today’s mobile smartphone users.
Therefore as (Rebolj & Menzel, 2004,b) suggests that mobile computers need
“Networks with sufficient bandwidth which can be accessed while in motion. This
certainly excludes wired networks but includes all kinds of wireless ones.” This according
to (Ward, et al., 2004) this has already happened with the “amalgamation of mobile
computing devices and mobile telecommunications protocols, with PDA’s now available
with integrated mobile connectivity or via a separate mobile phone, through either a
wired or wireless connection such as Bluetooth.”
Therefore providing that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support this mobile
connectivity then, “This provides the mobile user with the ability to upload and download
data from anywhere that a mobile signal is provided (Ward, et al., 2004).”
Figure 10 below shows the percentage of 3G mobile broadband coverage for each
nation listed. This information was obtained from the OCED statistical website however
this information is accurate as of 2009.
Figure 10: Percentage of Population Coverage of 3G Broadband (OCED, 2012)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100

[23]
It can be seen the Figure 10 that Ireland has population coverage with 3G mobile
broadband of 89% while the United Kingdom has 90% population coverage. However
this information may have changed since the publication of this information in 2009.
Figure 11: Average Broadband Speed by Country (OCED, 2012)
It can be seen above in Figure 11 that Ireland has an advertised broadband download
speed of 22 Mbit/s yet the average tested broadband speed is 14 Mbit/s. Where 14Mbit/s
= 1.75 MB/s which is comparable to downloading an A3 PDF drawing file through email.
Therefore the average speed of Ireland’s broadband network is capable of
downloading one A3 drawing per second. Comparing this to Korea which as the highest
average broadband speeds measured which 78.6Mbit/s = 9.6MB/s which is capable of
downloading 5 times more data per second that Ireland.
20 000
40 000
60 000
80 000
100 000
120 000
140 000
160 000 Average advertised broadband download speed, kbit/s* Median
Average advertised broadband download speed, by country, kbit/s, September 2011

[24]
Table 9 below compares some of the broadband suppliers in Ireland currently
operating in the market. However this information does not take into account business
rates, therefore it mostly comprises of tariffs available to personnel and small businesses.
Operator Plan Name
Plan
Monthly
Cost
Average
Monthly
Cost
Minimum
Contract
Duration
Downloa
d Limit
Excess
Cost
per Mb
Three Broadband Light €10.15 €14.23 12 months 1 Gb €0.05
Imagine WiMax 3Mb Mobile Broadband €10.17 €14.41 12 months 15 Gb N/A
Imagine WiMax 7Mb Mobile Broadband €15.25 €19.49 12 months 15 Gb N/A
Meteor
Meteor Bill Pay Broadband To
Go 5GB 12 Months
€17.27 €19.69 12 months 5 Gb €0.02
O2 O2 Broadband 15GB €19.99 €19.99 18 months 15 Gb €0.02
Meteor
Go 20GB 18 Months
€20.32 €20.32 18 months 20 Gb €0.02
eMobile
eMobile Bill Pay Mobile
Broadband
€20.32 €20.32 12 months 10 Gb €0.02
Meteor
Go 20GB 30Day SIMOnly
€20.32 €20.32 None 20 Gb €0.02
Meteor
Go 10GB 12 Months
€20.32 €22.74 12 months 10 Gb €0.02
Three Broadband Active €20.32 €22.74 12 months 15 Gb €0.05
Meteor
Meteor Pay As You Go
Broadband To Go
€19.99 €23.24 None 7.5 Gb €0.02
eMobile
eMobile Prepay Mobile
Broadband
€19.99 €24.07 None 7.5 Gb €0.02
Meteor
Go 20GB 12 Months
€25.40 €25.40 12 months 20 Gb €0.02
Meteor
Go 30GB 18 Months
€25.40 €25.40 18 months 30 Gb €0.02
Three Broadband Pro €30.49 €30.49 12 months 60 Gb €0.05
Table 9: Comparison of Mobile Broadband Provides (Comreg, 2012)
It can be seen above that the download limit ranges from 1GB to 60GB per month.
Assuming that each drawing size is 1.5MB big and the lowest download limit is 1,024MB
then 682 drawings could be downloaded per month throughout the workforce on-site.
However this download limit is also required to service the e-mail clients that the
workers are communicating through. Therefore limiting the usefulness of using 1GB of
data download per month, depending on the size of the site, number of workers and the
required information these workers would need to complete their job. Then this 1GB limit
may not be enough to cope with the demands the workers will place on the network
especially with multiple downloads of the same file to different workers.
Therefore the 60GB option provided by Three would be the most sensible option
potentially eliminating the extra charges in exceeding the download limit set out by the
ISP.

[25]
2.4 Mobile Computing In Construction
2.4.1 Why Use Mobile Computing
Kajewski & Alwi (2006) suggest that from the mid 1980’s project management
software was readily available. As a result computing devices have become commonplace
on construction sites for large contractors. However Hass et al. (2002) mentioned that
while computers have been in use in construction industry for many years the application
of handheld devices for use on the construction site has been limited.
Löfgren (2006,b, p. 67) states that “it is widely known that the construction industry
worldwide has problems related to efficiency and productivity” of which according to
Figure 12 is that 65% of this inefficiency is attributed to insufficient, inappropriate or
conflicting information.
Figure 12: Breakdown of Contractor rework, adapted from Wanhong et al. (2006)
Some of the inadequacies in Figure 12 that account for 65% of contractor rework
could be eliminated with the use of mobile computers.
Therefore it appears that the current workforce is not ready or willing for the use of
mobile information technology in construction, or managers feel that mobile information
technology is not necessary in order to get the project completed efficiently and on time.
This increase in efficiency can be seen in Figure 13where although there is an increase
in the individuals preparation time for a particular task. This increase in preparation along
Insufficient,
Inappropriate or
conflicting
information, 65%
Human Error, 17%
Weather, 8%
Poor
Workmanship, 5%
Materials Failure,
5%

[26]
with the use of a mobile computing device has led to a dramatic reduction in the time
taking to accomplish a task. Such as issuing of instructions as well as the collection of
data, this is due to the mobile computing device being connected to the construction
information of the project.
Figure 13: Comparison of Productivity (Kimoto, et al., 2005)
It can be seen in Figure 13 above that by implementing a PDA System the combined
saving of time per week according to the figure is twelve hours are saved each week. This
saving of time would allow the operator of the PDA System to be more productive each
week or to carry out tasks such as supervision.

[27]
In a survey of 179 foremen, Alemany (1999) proved that those who implemented
computers at work saved time on paperwork and spent more time on site supervision this
can be seen in Figure 14 below. This increase in supervision allowed the foremen to spend
less time on paperwork and aided the foremen in locating tools, equipment, materials and
also to request for further information if required.
Figure 14: Time Breakdown of a Foreman’s Jobsite Activities, Adapted from Alemany (1999)
Although the information in Figure 14 above relies on information that is accurate in
relation to supplying the foremen with desktop computers, it can be seen that an increase
in site supervision was achieved from the introduction on computing devices to the
Therefore by introducing mobile computers to construction sites then the benefits that
computers brought when first introduced can further enhance the supervision duties of
construction foremen. The author believes that introducing mobile computers to the
construction site then the foreman would be capable of conducting most of their duties
from the site, eliminating the need to return to the site office frequently.
Therefore “Mobile Computing has the potential of improving the management of a
construction company (Bradut, 2008).”
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Supervision
Interpreting Plans
Scheduling
Material Procurement
Time Reports
Locating Plans
Equip Procurement
Tools Procurement
other
Without Computer With Computer

[28]
2.4.2 Potential Uses
The key objective of this study is to assess whether it would be realistic for a
construction company to implement mobile computers into daily on site activities.
“If a site engineer is missing a set of drawings that is not available at the site, the
engineer will have to travel back to the main office to retrieve it instead of conveniently
downloading it with a laptop at the site (Brilakis, 2006).”
If this scenario outlined above in Brilakis’s statement occurred on-site then providing
that a system shown in Figure 15 below was implemented onto a construction site. Then
the scenario which Brilakis describes above could be eliminated. As once the site engineer
or other on-site user had access to a mobile device with a wireless connection to the
construction information, then the necessary information could be access directly from
the construction site.
Figure 15: Framework for using mobile computing for information management on construction sites. (Yuan &
Kamara, 2011)

[29]
Table 10 below outlines potential benefits that mobile computing could bring to a
construction project if implemented. It can be seen that mobile computers have the
possibility of increasing efficiency in construction projects while reducing costs and
errors.
Increase in: Reduction in:
(Hass,etal.,2002)
Accountability Secretarial staff requirements
Competitive position Construction cost
Communication Construction errors
Design and construction quality Data processing errors
Expert knowledge in the field Data re-typing
Global reach Delays
Instant access to relevant information Liability
Integration of information from various sources Postal costs
Operational efficiency Maintenance costs
Personal productivity Paper handling and clerical costs
Production efficiency Supply and distribution costs
Resource flexibility Time to project completion
Safety Travel
Workload levelling
(Bowden,etal.,2006)
Productivity O&M Costs
Predictability Construction Time
Construction Costs
Travel Time to Retrieve information
Travel time to view activity
Defects
Accidents
Waste
Table 10: Potential Benefits of mobile IT on a Construction Project
However this is not an exhaustive list of potential uses that mobile computers could
bring to the construction industry.
It can been seen in Table 10 above that there are a wide range of benefits that mat be
achieved from the introduction and usage of mobile computers in construction sites. It is
interesting to note that the two authors featured above in Table 10 share some benefits of
mobile devices. This ranges from the increase in site safety to the reduction in time delays,
construction costs, errors, and also the increase in productivity.

[30]
2.4.3 Training
“If users lack the required computer skills and knowledge, training and education
are necessary for them before the use of relevant mobile computing technologies. (Chen
& Kamara, 2008, p. 780)” Consequently “To introduce a new technology involves cost,
time, manpower and training (Kazi, et al., 2009, p. 306).” therefore ensuring a
construction company is willing to provide appropriate training then this will “increase
the likelihood that IT will be accepted, since training tends to bring about better
understanding and more favourable attitudes toward the technology and to result in more
frequent use of it (Son, et al., 2012, p. 85).”
“Training has been identified as an important factor affecting IT acceptance in an
organization (Son, et al., 2012, p. 85).”
Löfgren (2007) suggests that implementing mobile devices from the commencement
of a construction project while also having a dedicated ICT team on-site to assist the
engineers with the usage of the mobile computer devices. Therefore by providing an ICT
team the user of the mobile device will have technical support from the site office.
Löfgren presents a valid point of introducing mobile devices and a technical team that
knows about the devices in case of a technical issue, at the same time on the
commencement of the construction project, where the ICT team can provide training or
support for the mobile computers.
However the decision on training is entirely on the site management, whether there
will be full time ICT on site or the possibility of training on the usage of the mobile
devices when the engineers start on the project.

[31]
2.4.4 Implementation
According to Kajewski & Alwi (2006) the main objectives on a construction project
are to add value to the constructed facilities, the contractor’s business and the owner’s
company.
Therefore managers need to spend considerable time when choosing to implement
mobile computers into the construction site. This is to ensure that time and more
importantly money are not wasted, and that by introducing mobile computers that overall
quality of the jobsite is improved. Löfgren (2007) suggests that a bottom-up approach
where the on-site management team operate the mobile devices for their own ICT needs
on the job, then if successful senior management will encourage the use of the devices
throughout the company.
According to Löfgren (2007) the user’s involvement in the technical development and
implementation of mobile computers is critical for achieving long-term usefulness of
mobile computers for on-site needs. Löfgren (2007) further suggests that the tablet
computer project implemented by Skanska AB which is one of Sweden’s largest
construction companies showed that the implementation process was a key information
source for obtaining improved understanding of the usefulness and benefit of mobile
computing devices in the construction site.
Löfgren (2007) suggests that implementing mobile devices from the start of a
construction project while also having a dedicated ICT team on-site to assist the engineers
and other users in the usage of the mobile computer devices. Therefore by providing an
ICT team the user of the mobile device will have technical support from the site office
and the user will be more acceptable to using the device, knowing that if the device was
to malfunction then full support could be provided immediately by the on-site ICT team.
Löfgren (2006,a) suggests that the technological implementation of mobile computing
devices is a highly complex process where technical, organizational and financial
resources are required to cooperate together in order to provide a purposeful operational
system.

[32]
2.4.5 Return on Investment
“Technology is invariably expensive, and it is essential for companies to first examine
the suitability of a new system, evaluate its ROI and determine whether the software will
actually be used (White, 2007, p. 19).”
It can be seen in Figure 16 below that the return of investment of implementing mobile
computing devices into a construction project is more beneficial to a project that has
greater number of employees working on the jobsite.
Figure 16: Cost and benefit of Mobile Computing devices as a function of the number of field workers, adapted
from Rebolj & Menzel (2004,a)
However as suggested by Wanhong et al., (2006) there are costs associated with the
necessary upkeep and maintenance of mobile computers these range from, the
maintenance and upgrading of hardware, the upgrading and licencing of software, fees in
relation to internet service providers, salaries of the ICT team, training of the potential
users of the devices and the implantation of a wireless network for the devices to
communicate.
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
10 20 30 40 50 60 70
KSEK
NUMBER OF FIELD WORKERS
Cost Benefit

[33]
2.5 Case Studies
The purpose of reviewing case studies is to achieve an honest reflection of mobile
devices functions in different environments and their potential within various
construction sites.
2.5.1 King’s Cross Implementation of Mobile Computers
The King’s cross development consisted of 575 piles ranging in diameter of 750mm
to 2100mm with depths of between 14m and 40m. The development was situated at the
rear of Kings Cross Station in London had a project contract value of £10.5 million.
On this project the mobile computer was utilised to provide real-time data capture of
the piling works enabling the recording of construction information of piles.
The mobile devices used on this project were touchscreen tablet computers running
Windows CE and a WLAN interface which enables the devices to access the site server
via the Wireless Network Cells. This enabled the tablet computers the capability to
provide full desktop capability to its users from the construction site. While each tablet
device has a semi-rugged design, enabling for the tablet device to survive drops of up to
1 meter onto concrete with limited water and dust protection. For the duration of project
of 18 months the tablet computers have proofed to be durable with a low failure rate of
one every twelve months of operation.
Custom software was written for the capture of the piling information which piling
managers utilised to input the required information for the data capture of the piling
information.
The battery in each tablet was powerful enough to be used for approximately four
hours of continuous usage. However this required the user to swap the batteries on site,
although once the battery was removed from the device it erased the memory theoretically
resetting the device when changing batteries on site. Two overcome this, the contractor
provided on-site power supply were the tablet computers could be plugged-in in order to
change the battery without resetting the device.

[34]
To provide communication of the mobile devices, a system of wireless network cells
(WNC) was established throughout the site to provide wireless network coverage of the
site. Each WNC was designed to be fully portable, rugged and re-configurable to meet
the specific requirement of piling works. An example of a WNC can be seen in Figure 17
below. Each WNC can provide wireless network coverage to a certain part of the site.
Figure 17: Wireless Network Cell (Ward, et al., 2004)
Initial testing of the mobile devices yielded negative feedback from the workers in
relation to the system. However this was due to signal losses in using the WNC network
however once the network was updated with Rig and Tower mounted WNC devices. The
pile managers on the site showed an interest in assisting diagnostics when these problems
occurred on site while also trying to improve the system with different approaches to the
usage of the system.
To determine the benefit of the system to the company, cost benefit analysis was
conducted for the King’s cross development, results of which can be seen below in Table
11.
Contract Value £10,500,000
Number of Piles 575
Average Cost per Pile £18,000
Baseline cost remedial work (X) (0.97% of Contract Value) £102,000
Actual Cost of remedial work (Y) £20,000
System Implementation (Z) £20,000
Saving (X-Y-Z) £62,000
Table 11: Cost analysis for King's Cross Implementation (Ward, et al., 2004)

[35]
2.6 Summary
This literature review has identified some areas of further investigation and research,
these include:
 The End User?
Managers would have a different perception towards the usefulness of mobile
computing compared to site engineers and foremen.
 Workers attitudes towards implementation of mobile computing devices
Will workers opt to try to work will the devices to further implement them into the
construction industry or will the workers be stubborn enough not to change from the
established ways of conducting work.
 Information transfer on site
Mobile computers have the ability to improve the transfer of information on site,
however the network on which the devices communicate is important as it determines the
speed at which information can be uploaded or downloaded from the office server.
 Durability of Mobile Computers
Mobile computers are available in rugged design, but the literature reviewed has not
stated at what heights these devices can be dropped from and survive, how dust prove,
water proof the devices are and whether the devices can operate in extreme conditions of
hot and cold. These factors are due to the varying nature of where construction projects
are situated.
 Size of the devices
The different sizes available for mobile computing devices varies, therefore one can
argue that a smartphone is more beneficial to construction sites due to its portability, but
tablet computers allow for the better viewing of construction information such as
specification and drawing documents. Therefore knowledge about the construction
industry and computers would be beneficial in choosing the correct device with
portability, display size, storage, battery, and communication methods to other computing
devices would be the most feasible option for the construction industry.

3.0 Methodology
[36]
3 Methodology
3.1 Introduction
There are two methods of obtaining information these are both primary and secondary
information. This chapter of the dissertation outlines the methods used to obtain both
primary and secondary information on the topic chosen. The term Methodology can be
defined as:
“A system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity (Oxford University
Press, 2012)”
or
“A system of broad principles or rules from which specific methods or procedures
may be derived to interpret or solve different problems within the scope of a particular
discipline. Unlike an algorithm, a methodology is not a formula but a set of practices.
(Business Dictionary, 2012)”
It can be seen below in Table 12 the main differences between primary and secondary
sources of information. Is primary research is focused on the factual accounts of
information usually from a written first-hand account during or close to the time period.
Whereas secondary research is second-hand accounts of factual work obtained from
books, articles, biographies and history, therefore secondary research is the analysis and
interpretation of primary sources of information.
Source Definition Example
Primary
• Original, first-hand account of an event or
time period
• Diaries, journals, and letters
• Newspaper and magazine articles (factual accounts)
• Government records (census, marriage, military)
• Usually written or made during or close to
the event or time period
• Photographs, maps, postcards, posters
• Recorded or transcribed speeches
• Interviews with participants or witnesses
• Interviews with people who lived during a
particular time
• Original, creative writing or works of art
• Songs, Plays, novels, stories
• Factual, not interpretive • Paintings, drawings, and sculptures
Secondary
• Analyses and interprets primary sources
• Biographies • Histories • Literary Criticism • Book,
Art, and Theatre Reviews • Newspaper articles that
interpret
• Second-hand account of an historical event
• Interprets creative work
Table 12: Primary and secondary research explained. (Thomas, 2010)

3.0 Methodology
[37]
3.2 Primary Information:
There are two methods of obtaining primary information; these methods are
specifically Quantitative and Qualitative methods. However it is important to recognize
the difference between the two methods. Examples of the differences between qualitative
and quantitative research can be seen below in Table 13.
Criteria Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Purpose
To understand & interpret social
interactions.
To test hypotheses, look at cause &
effect, & make predictions.
Group Studied Smaller & not randomly selected. Larger & randomly selected.
Variables Study of the whole, not variables. Specific variables studied
Type of Data Collected Words, images, or objects. Numbers and statistics.
Form of Data Collected
Qualitative data such as open- ended
responses, interviews, participant
observations, field notes, & reflections.
Quantitative data based on precise
measurements using structured &
validated data-collection instruments.
Type of Data Analysis Identify patterns, features, themes. Identify statistical relationships.
Objectivity and Subjectivity Subjectivity is expected. Objectivity is critical.
Role of Researcher
Researcher & their biases may be known
to participants in the study, & participant
characteristics may be known to the
researcher.
Researcher & their biases arc not
known to participants in the study, &
participant characteristics arc
deliberately hidden from the
researcher (double blind studies).
Results
Particular or specialized findings that is
less generalizable.
Generalizable findings that can be
applied to other populations.
Scientific Method
Exploratory or bottom-up: the researcher
generates a new hypothesis and theory
from the data collected.
Confirmatory or top-down: the
researcher tests the hypothesis and
theory with the data.
View of Human Behaviour Dynamic, situational, social, & personal. Regular & predictable.
Most Common Research
Objectives
Explore, discover, & construct. Describe, explain, & predict.
Focus
Wide-angle lens; examines the breadth &
depth of phenomena.
Narrow-angle lens; tests a specific
hypothesis.
Nature of Observation Study behaviour in a natural environment.
Study behaviour under controlled
conditions; isolate causal effects.
Nature of Reality Multiple realities; subjective. Single reality; objective.
Final Report
Narrative report with contextual
description & direct quotations from
research participants.
Statistical report with correlations,
comparisons of means, & statistical
significance of findings.
Table 13: Qualitative versus Quantitative Research. Adapted from Johnson & Christensen (2008, p. 34) and
Lichtman (2006, pp. 7-8)
Quantitative research findings comprise of data gathered from methods such as
interviews, verbal interactions and relies on the interpretations of the researchers
participants. These types of information generate non-numerical data where the
information obtained is usually text based.
Quantitative research is obtained through techniques such as questionnaires,
experimentations and results in numerically based findings such as questionnaires or
national census figures, which is a count of the people and households of the country.

3.0 Methodology
[38]
Denzin & Lincoln (1994) suggest that qualitative research is a field of inquiry that
crosscuts disciplines, fields and subject matter it is a complex interconnected family of
concepts and assumptions.
“Qualitative research seeks out the ‘why’, not the ‘how’ of its topic through the
analysis of unstructured information – things like interview transcripts, open
ended survey responses, e-mails, notes, feedback forms, photos and videos. It doesn’t just
rely on statistics or numbers, which are the domain of quantitative researchers” (Ereaut,
2011)
This form of research allows the author to interview various staff in the construction
industry to gain an insight into their perspective of using mobile computing devices in
construction.

3.0 Methodology
[39]
3.3 Methods of Primary Information Gathering
3.3.1 Case Study
As part of the methodology the author has decided to conduct a case study on
Pembroke CCGT (Combined Cycle Gas Turbine) PowerStation, where the author
participated in a five month industrial placement with Sisk UK as part of the BSc in
Construction Management and Engineering course in the second semester of year three.
As part of the case study the following personnel from the Sisk office based on the
Pembroke PowerStation were interviewed.
 Project Manager
 Site Agent
 Two Site Engineer’s
 Environmental Health & Safety Officer
It is intended to conduct the case study with focus on some of the site-office personnel
at the Pembroke Site. The interview questions will be broad and generalised due to the
different levels of knowledge in relation to computer devices between the participants.

3.0 Methodology
[40]
3.3.2 Interviewing
Interviewing is a common technique procuring information from individuals. The
Interview involves the asking and answering of questions by means of telephone or
computer and can be conducted in a range of forms from structured interviews where the
questions are fixed, to a conversation where notes are taken to aid in the recording of the
interview. (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, 2012)
Structured Semi-Structured Unstructured Informal
The interviewer
asks each
respondent the
same series of
questions.
The interviewer and
respondents engage in a
formal interview.
The interviewer and respondents
engage in a formal interview in
that they have a scheduled time
to sit and speak with each other
and both parties recognize this to
be an interview.
The interviewer talks with
people in the field
informally, without use of
a structured interview
guide of any kind.
The questions are
created prior to the
interview, and often
have a limited set
of response
categories.
The interviewer develops
and uses an 'interview
guide.' This is a list of
questions and topics that
need to be covered
during the conversation,
usually in a particular
order.
The interviewer has a clear plan
in mind regarding the focus and
goal of the interview. This
guides the discussion.
The researcher tries to
remember his or her
conversations with
informants, and uses
jottings or brief notes
taken in the field to help
in the recall and writing
of notes from experiences
in the field.
There is generally
little room for
variation in
responses and there
are few open-ended
questions included
in the interview
guide.
The interviewer follows
the guide, but is able to
follow topical trajectories
in the conversation that
may stray from the guide
when he or she feels this
is appropriate.
There is not a structured
interview guide. Instead, the
interviewer builds rapport with
respondents, getting respondents
to open-up and express
themselves in their own way.
Informal interviewing
goes hand-in-hand with
participant observation.
Questioning is
standardized and
the ordering and
phrasing of the
questions are kept
consistent from
interview to
interview.
Questions tend to be open-ended
and express little control over
informants' responses.
While in the field as an
observer, informal
interviews are casual
conversations one might
have with the people the
researcher is observing.
Table 14: Different types of Interviews. Adapted from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
As can be seen in Table 14 above there are various types of interviewing techniques.
As the author will be interviewing former co-workers, the author feels that a structured
interview would be unsuitable to use as it may be interpreted as being formal and may
make the participants nervous.
However if an unstructured approach was used then the necessary information may
not be obtained after the interview process, if the informal approach was to be used then
the author feels that the required information might be forgotten or simply not asked.
Therefore the author has decided that a semi-structured approach would yield the best
results in asking the correct questions and making the participants feel comfortable in
answering the questions put towards them which can then be used in the final findings.

3.0 Methodology
[41]
3.4 Secondary Information
When preparing the literature review, most of the secondary research was obtained
from a variety of different sources depending on what literature was available on the topic.
The main sources of information were gathered from journals, web-sites and books.
The information found was both past and current however most of the information
was over five years old. The first source of secondary information that was used was the
internet, this was to gain an overall view and gather some potential useful information.
Although most of this information was used in diagrams and relevant pictures, while
information obtained was limited to academic journals rather than information sourced
directly from internet pages.
Most secondary sources of information were obtained from the online databases of
the Luke Wadding Library at Waterford Institute of Technology, where student access is
granted to various databases for academic reasons.
Therefore most of the secondary information was obtained in the form of academic
journals using the MultiSearch feature which enables the searching of the entire library’s
online databases simultaneously. The academic journals were in the form of PDF files
while ensuring that the journals were useful and properly referenced.

3.0 Methodology
[42]
3.5 Summary
In this section of the dissertation is the outline of the research methodology that the
author has decided to use. By carrying out both primary and secondary research, sufficient
data has enabled the author to generate information on the subject in question.
The author has explained that qualitative analysis can be used in the form of semi-
structured interviews, which should provide enough primary information to deliver an
accurate portrait of the feasibility of implementing mobile computing into construction
projects.
This primary research coupled with the secondary research gathered through
researching the various literature journals available on the topic. The primary research
will be recorded and investigated with the information presented in the findings chapter
of the case study.
However there are some factors that may affect the overall quality of the dissertation,
these factors will mainly be in relation to the time constraints set out for the dissertation,
as well as the quality of information obtained from the interviews also from overlapping
of similar information.
This information should give the author enough information to create various results
and conclusions and the two forms of research should enable the author to prove or
disprove the hypothesis of the dissertation.

4.0 Case Study
[43]
4 Case Study
4.1 Introduction
The interviews focused on some of the project management team who worked on the
Pembroke project. The main focus of the interviews is to identify the levels of knowledge
and views towards the concept of mobile computing and its potential adaption within the
Irish Construction Industry.

4.0 Case Study
[44]
4.2 Project Team
4.2.1 Team Introduction
Q1 Can you tell me about yourself and your position within Sisk?
Contracts
Manager
Contracts Manager working for John Sisk & Son Ltd. Presently working
on in Eli Lilly in Cork on the construction of a new Pharmaceutical
Process Block.
EHS
Officer
I am employed as a Health & Safety Officer. I have worked in the
construction industry since I left University in 2001
Engineer
#1
I'm a Senior Engineer with John Sisk.
I joined Sisk as a graduate Engineer in 2006 straight from WI.T. I
received my job offer following on from my industrial placement with
Sisk.
Initially I started on Price Waterhouse Coopers new Offices in Spencer
Dock to Block RSTUV high spec apartments also in Spencer Dock.
From Spencer Dock I moved to the Aviva Stadium for the next 2 years.
Here I was package manager for the blockwork, signage, Level 6 & 7 fit
out Soffit insulation and the Furniture Fixings and equipment (FF&E)
Engineer
#2
With the company 14 years joined as a graduate engineer and my
current position is Senior Engineer
Site
Agent
Currently employed as a site agent with John Sisk & Sisk and I have
over ten years’ experience in the construction industry.
It can be seen above from that there are various levels of experience between the
personnel interviewed. The main advantage is that a clear contrast may be shown in the
following questions in the acceptance and knowledge of mobile computing in the

4.0 Case Study
[45]
Q2
How often would you use computers as part of your daily work
schedule?
Contracts
Manager
Every day. Computers are now an integral part of how we work in
managing construction projects.
EHS
Officer
Every day about 50% of my day would be in front of a computer
Engineer
#1
Constantly I believe we are at a point where we cannot function
affectively without a computer
Engineer
#2
Every day I would spend around 90% of my day using a computer
Site
Agent
Everyday. There is no day where I do not need to use a computer.
The above answers outline the interviewee’s reliance on using computers in daily
activities on construction sites nowadays. With all the participants specifying that they
use their computer in the office for at least 50% of their days work.
Chen et al 2007 states that the “Construction industry has benefitted greatly from the
advances in ICT in the last 15 years” while this statement is true, it appears from the
above answers that is the participants were issued mobile computers then more of their
daily work could be spent on site supervision.

4.0 Case Study
[46]
Q3
Do you think that time is wasted by site personnel having to return
to the site office to retrieve missing information?
Contracts
Manager
Time is spent going back and forth to the office checking drawings and
details, especially on large sites. I wouldn’t say that time is wasted as
this is part and parcel of managing construction sites, however I could
see where benefits could be had if this information was available to
hand.
EHS
Officer
Yes – most certainly
Engineer
#1
Yes. Frequently on jobs time is lost going to and from the office looking
for details or in particular setting out coordinates
Engineer
#2
Not really an issue – if work is planned correctly last minute retrieval of
information does not happen
Site
Agent
Yes
Most of the participants agree with the wastage of time on site due to missing
information however they agree that this is part and parcel of the construction industry.
Which is similar to the statement from Brilakis (2006) “If a site engineer is missing
a set of drawings that is not available at the site, the engineer will have to travel back to
the main office to retrieve it instead of conveniently downloading it with a laptop at the
site.”
While the issue of returning to the site office from the site would not be considered
time wasted on smaller sites, if an engineer had to return several kilometres to the site
office on a roads project several times then this might be considered as time wastage.

4.0 Case Study
[47]
4.2.2 The Mobile Computer
Q4 What is your understanding of the term "Mobile Computing?"
Contracts
Manager
My understanding of “Mobile Computing” is the use of tablets or smart
phones i.e. computers that are available to use anywhere.
EHS
Officer
Tablets and phones which can access information anywhere at any
time
Engineer
#1
Use of a tablet or Mobile phone to access the internet
Engineer
#2
Usage of Laptops, Tablet and Smart Phones
Site
Agent
IT at the workface
It can be seen above that all participants agreed that there understanding of Mobile
computing was the usage of smartphones, Tablet computers or devices which can access
information through the internet.
This is similar to the definition stated by Rebolj & Menzel (2004,b, p. 281) where
“Computers which can be used indoors and outdoors while the user is in motion. This
excludes conventional notebooks but includes tablet PCs and all kinds of pocket
computers, palmtops and wearable computers.”

4.0 Case Study
[48]
Q5
Would you consider that mobile computers would be beneficial to
the construction industry?
Contracts
Manager
Yes
EHS
Officer
Yes they have the potential to access the site forms from a central
site drive which could be filled out
Engineer
#1
Yes. I can see great potential in mobile computers as some Engineers are
even loading PDF drawings on to their mobile devices instead of
carrying reams of paper with them on site
Engineer
#2
Very few desktop computers left in site offices – Document controller
generally being the only one. Laptops can be brought to meetings, used
remotely while travelling etc.
Site
Agent
Yes
All the participants agreed that Mobile Computers would be beneficial to the
construction industry. And that they have the possibility to fill out information or access
information while on site.
Therefore by enabling forms to be filled out on site as suggested by the EHS Officer,
it would address some of the efficiencies outlined in Figure 12.

4.0 Case Study
[49]
Q6
Have you heard of mobile computers being used on construction
sites?
Contracts
Manager
Yes. On the site that I presently work on, the Client’s inspectors are
using iPads for documenting and uploading punchlist items.
In addition total stations (used for surveying and setting out) have been
used in the construction industry for a number of years. These are also a
form of “Mobile Computing”.
EHS
Officer
On my current project a lot of managers are carrying tablets. They
do minutes of meeting as they go. The minutes can be released at the
end of the meeting – fast and saves time
Engineer
#1
Yes but it is not company policy most of the time staff are doing this on
their own personal devices to save time. Companies do provide laptops
and Internet dongles but that is limited to the site office there is a greater
potential to expand this into the field
Engineer
#2
Yes in usage in permit offices
Site
Agent
We use iPad’s /smartphones to log snags on to a company database
Each participant outlined that they have indeed heard of mobile devices being used
on construction sites, but usage was mostly limited to the final stages of the project. (I.e.
Snag/Punch lists, and in the usage of Quality Control and Quality Assurance) or in limited
roles such as permit control on sites.
However the Contracts Manager makes a valid point in specifying that mobile
computers have been used on site for many years in the form of total stations.

4.0 Case Study
[50]
Q7
Which areas of construction would benefit more from the usage of
mobile computers?
Contracts
Manager
Mobile computers would be beneficial for Quality Control and
Surveying. Another use of benefit would be if drawings, RFI’s, and
other construction details were readily available at the workface via a
mobile computer.
EHS
Officer
In particular in my area would make inspection form filling much
faster. Engineers can send RFI’s/ queries/sign off out on site without
having to come back in to the office
Engineer
#1
Engineers and project managers could benefit greatly if mobile
computing was introduced more formally in the field. This would save
on time and also keep the information current. All too often setting out
coordinates are worked out manually handwritten and stuffed into an
Engineers pocket out on site. All too often the information becomes
illegible or the drawing is up revved and the information is invalid.
Engineer
#2
Compiling snag lists/ works to go on walk downs as they happen rather
than waiting to go back to the office where a particular slant can be put
on them which may not be to the advantage of one party to the walk
down
Site
Agent
All aspects of construction. Information is required at the work face not
in the office
Most participants agreed that snaglists/punchlists were the key area that would benefit
from the application of mobile computers. However they agreed that mobile computers
would enable the viewing and issuing of drawings and RFI’s from the workface, this is
similar to the viewpoint of the site agent where information is required at the workface.
Also Engineer #2 make a valid point as after a walk down one party may try to offload
the blame of the problem to another as to not take responsibility for the occurrence.

4.0 Case Study
[51]
Q8
In your opinion would mobile computers be feasible on construction
sites, or should pen and paper be faster and easier?
Contracts
Manager
Mobile computing is definitely the way forward. However I feel that in
alot of situations on construction sites, especially at the early stage of
construction when groundwork’s is ongoing, mobile computers would
not stand up to the wear and tear, of weather experienced on some sites.
Mobile computers would be expensive to replace if damaged. They
would be better suited to the end of construction projects when areas are
enclosed and the finishing work is ongoing.
EHS
Officer
The mobile computer system would have to be robust and easily
portable in order to compete with the traditional pen and paper
Engineer
#1
As discussed on my previous note the pen can be faster but the
information can stagnate. Companies should view mobile computing as
an investment and offset the costs vs. setting out mistakes which can be
extremely costly
Engineer
#2
In some sites like early stage green field, mobile computers may be of
limited use if there are no recharging facilities therefore the pen and
paper would be more feasible
Site
Agent
Yes but the biggest problem we encounter at present is 3G signal
strength. Otherwise it is the way construction is heading
All participants agreed that mobile computing is the way forward in construction but
that the ruggedness of the devices would be the key issue to the usage on sites and that
the devices would also have to be easily portable to complete with the pen and paper
approach. This is similar to Menzel et al. (2004, p. 392) who suggests that “There are
several environmental restrictions that might impact the usage of mobile devices in the
field.” As these factors range from “the natural weather conditions like heavy rains,
frosty and cold temperatures, sunlight etc.” to “the type of construction site such as a
bridge, road or building.”

4.0 Case Study
[52]
Q9
Would you consider that mobile computers would be more suited to
new graduate rather than more experienced members of staff?
Contracts
Manager
Obviously a new graduate would have a better grasp of new technology
but there is no reason why more experienced staff members could not be
trained up.
EHS
Officer
Probably be more suited to the younger generation
Engineer
#1
It depends I find that most staff below the age of 40 are willing to
embrace technology to enhance / improve their work but there is a
strong element of “Old School” construction staff that abhor the site of
an Engineer on a laptop. Whilst I can see their point in some cases I can
see this element actively discouraging younger members of staff taking
to mobile computing
Engineer
#2
No – modern computer software is user friendly
Site
Agent
No – I would say that it would suit everyone
Most of the participants agreed that a graduate would be more suited to the concept
of using mobile devices but agreed that with adequate training this would not be an issue
for the more experienced staff members.

4.0 Case Study
[53]
Q10 Have you heard of rugged computers?
Contracts
Manager
Not really, but I imagine they are computers that can with stand the
elements.
EHS
Officer
No
Engineer
#1
No
Engineer
#2
Yes, I have seen them on the internet
Site
Agent
Yes, but site conditions will answer the question on how rugged they are
Only two participants did not understand or came across the concept of rugged
computers. But one explained to them agreed that rugged computers could be suited to
constructions sites but that site conditions of the various projects these devices would be
subjected to would determine how rugged the devices really are.
Yuan & Kamara (2011, p. 783) states that rugged computers should have the “specific
physical features such as rugged screen, water and dust protection and crash resistance,
and should have long-time battery duration to support users' information management
activities on work sites.”

4.0 Case Study
[54]
4.2.3 The User
Q11 What would you look for in a mobile computer?
Contracts
Manager
Durability, ease of use, convenient to carry around yet big enough to
read drawings off.
EHS
Officer
Easily portable, durably, robust and that can be fitted into a pocket
Engineer
#1
Camera, Robust Construction, 3G reception Waterproof
Engineer
#2
Speed, simplicity and plenty of memory
Site
Agent
Robust, user friendly and 3G reception
It can be seen above that each of the participants is looking for certain aspects of the
mobile devices to appeal to themselves. However once comparing all the aspects together
a tablet would be the best device however as the EHS officer aggress that it should fit in
a pocket then a “Phablet” device such as the Samsung Galaxy Note series of phones is
available in rugged form would be best suited to sites, due to the size and portability of
the devices.

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