Building log books and online building information: Industry perceptions

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to establish the level of usage and how building log books are perceived within the UK non‐domestic buildings sector, and to identify potential benefits resulting from the use of building log books and internet‐based building information systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The method employed was the distribution and analysis of market survey questionnaires, distributed primarily via a professional body.

Findings

There is limited use of building log books, plus varying degrees of perceived usefulness, especially between the designer/contractor sector and the facilities management sector. Internet‐based information management systems appear to be largely acceptable. The quality of building information is likely to depend on who provides it. There is a significant perception within the designer/contractor sector that building regulations are not enforcing the availability of building log books in relevant buildings.

Research limitations/implications

Only a limited literature review was undertaken, and there may be limitations due to the nature of the distribution of the surveys and sample sizes. More research into the effective provision, management and utilisation of useful building information is required.

Practical implications

The paper demonstrates that regulations may not necessarily lead to practical implementation and that there is significant room for improvement in the provision and maintenance of building information which is useful to those operating buildings.

Originality/value

The paper expands understanding of the need for useful building information and proper management of that information, both for the facilities manager and as a means of feeding forward into new building designs.

Citation

Liddiard, R., Jones, P., Day, A.R. and Kelly, D. (2008), "Building log books and online building information: Industry perceptions", Facilities, Vol. 26 No. 1/2, pp. 68-84. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770810840318