An inquiry into building product information acquisition and processing

摘要

Building product information provided by manufacturers and publishers should reflect the actual patterns of information acquisition and processing by those involved in the building delivery process. However, little factual data is available in that respect. This paper presents an empirical inquiry into product information acquisition and processing by architects and building owners in Austria. The results suggest that there are considerable differences between the two groups with respect to information needs, reuse of information, and information sources. Paper-based product information and personal conversations with sales representatives remain the preferred information sources for both architects and building owners. The present role of electronic media in product information processes appears rather small.