Stacy Lewis

Project Management For Complex Construction Projects By Monitoring Subcontractors In Real Time

Application

#2002008 Jul 4, 2002

Filed

Dec 29, 2000

Inventor

Darlene Freeman (Yardley, PA) · Mark Halverson (Belle Meade, NJ) · Stacy Lewis (Holland, PA)

Appl. No.

09/750350

Assignee

Darlene Freeman (Yardley, PA) · Mark Halverson (Belle Meade, NJ) · Stacy Lewis (Holland, PA)

International Classification

G06F017/60

U.S. Classification

705/009000

Abstract

A method and system for managing complex construction projects by monitoring subcontractors in real time. A contractor contracts with a manufacturer to construct a device, for example, a communications satellite. The manufacturer contracts with a number of subcontractors who supply goods and services necessary to construction of the device. Once construction begins, the computer program begins executing. Whenever a subcontractor realizes a need for a change in specification or anticipates any other reason that might delay completion of construction as scheduled, the subcontractor accesses the contractor's computer via an extranet site on the Internet. The subcontractor, once access is gained, selects from a computerized menu the appropriate new status for the subcontractor's task and provides other information relevant to the changed situation. The status change is displayed on a display device, an electronic dashboard. A manager or engineer in charge of the project notes the status change on the display and reads the information provided by the subcontractor. Other persons may be notified of the status change. With the information provided, the manager or engineer, with whatever input may be provided by the other persons notified of the status change, decides the best course of action to keep the construction on schedule.