Evolution of Information Control and Centralisation Through Stages of Complex Engineering Design Projects

This paper investigates how to identify potential misalignments between actual and expected information flow patterns among activities at each design stage. We develop a dynamic network model that quantifies how much information control each activity has over time and how the overall control of information is distributed among activities. The model is applied to the design of a biomass power plant. As a result we demonstrate an empirical relationship between information control patterns and design process stages that can be used to guide information flow improvements.

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