Implementation of Web-Based Electronic Data Management System: Case Study of Highway Megaproject Construction Material Quality Assurance Program

A case study of the implementation of a web-based electronic data management system (EDMS) for the construction material quality assurance program of the State Highway 130 Turnpike project, a 49-mi design–build highway megaproject in Texas, is presented. EDMS consists of a set of web-enabled data management and engineering analysis tools that support the independent construction quality assurance firm's (CQAF's) functions in managing, reporting, and analyzing materials test data. The system currently supports 43 field and laboratory test procedures and enables CQAF staff to process effectively a large volume of test reports. Substantial efforts were extended to develop online information delivery functions to disseminate consistent test information among a broad constituency of users, including engineers, managers, technicians and inspectors, construction superintendents, material vendors, and designers, in a virtual real-time fashion. The system automatically tracks and monitors material-related deficiencies and summarizes out-of-specification test results accepted by CQAF engineers on the basis of engineering judgment. To facilitate the oversight roles of federal and state transportation agencies, the system electronically transmits test data to the state transportation agency within hours of test completion. Using statistical analysis functions embedded in the system, engineers are able to monitor material quality trends and deficiencies effectively. Through EDMS, the quality and efficiency of the CQAF in making acceptance decisions, tracking deficiencies and corrective actions, and ensuring that the materials and workmanship incorporated into the project are in compliance with the requirements of the project specifications are greatly enhanced.