Using software agents for preplanning and tendering

Computer-based techniques for pre-planning and tendering design and construction work would enable construction professionals to assess the real impact of decisions they make at the early stages of a project. This paper presents work being undertaken to explore the potential of using software agents to replicate individuals involved in pre-planning and tendering. The emerging approach could be the basis for collaborative problem-solving and decision-support systems for the multi-disciplinary supply networks involved in construction.