Computer-aided design (CAD) is aa valuable tool for construction engin
eering to improve technical support of construction operations. The be
nefits obtained from CAD applications in the field include increased t
imeliness and accuracy of field drawings, improved communication of te
chnical information tailored to the specific needs of the user, and in
creased field productivity. These benefits result from using CAD to au
tomate existing processes and to provide new information for construct
ion. Examples of using CAD to automate existing processes include plan
ning survey layout, planning construction sequence and methods, analyz
ing concrete placements, designing formwork for concrete, and coordina
ting subcontractors. The new processes and products include analyzing
design requirements, planning site development, analyzing requirements
for construction equipment, and planning concrete construction operat
ions. Taking full advantage of the potential benefits of CAD requires
experimentation to determine the applications that best fit the needs
of the firm, projects, and training. The new construction-engineering
capabilities from effective use of CAD highlight the need to integrate
technical information supplied and used by design firms and construct
ion contractors.