VRML as an effective construction communication technique

During the project life cycle, several communication channels among stakeholders (designer, owner, contractor, subcontractors, etc) will be established in order to transfer needed data. These data are for examples memos, transmittals, requests, change orders, project progress, schedules, etc. Therefore, these parties need an effective communication procedure/tool to assure effective communication of project information. Currently, project stakeholders have turned to handle communication management using computer systems, but still depending on paper-based communication. Using Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML), engineers are now looking for electronic ways to distribute the required information, which can significantly minimize the paper-based communication. A VRML model is designed to convert the available 2D drawings to 3D drawings and then, generate VRML files using "Autodesk Design Review" software. The aim of this paper is to implement the designed model to a case study project in order to examine its effectiveness and efficiency using seven different communication channels during project life cycle. It is concluded that VRML technique leads to a better communication in construction projects.