Integrated Data‐Base Systems

The integrated database system (IDS) concept is being adopted by major industrial engineering contractors for the purpose of providing data‐processing links between facility design, construction, operations, and maintenance. An IDS typically combines computer‐aided‐design (CAD) and relational data‐base management software in a single multiuser system. Descriptions of two recently developed systems are presented as case studies. These case studies illustrate the diverse approaches that can be taken to develop and implement truly effective systems that provide tangible cost‐savings benefits. Major technological barriers to IDS development no longer exist. However, the extent to which integrated systems will become commonplace in the future depends in part on how rapidly the data‐processing and construction industries remove other minor barriers that include a lack of graphical data exchange standards and a lack of comon commodity codes for bulk construction materials.