A more rapid and widespread use and implementation of technology in construction often fails since its benefits and limitations remain somewhat unclear. Project control is one of the most variable and time consuming task of construction project managers and superintendents, and yet continues to be mostly a manual task. Controlling tasks such as tracking and updating project schedules can be assisted through remotely operating technology such as hi-resolution cameras that can provide construction management and other users with imaging feeds of job site activities. Although construction cameras have been around for many years the costs, benefits, and barriers of their use have not been investigated nor quantified in detail. Subsequently, definitions and understanding vary widely, making it difficult for decision makers at the organizational level to decide on the investment in camera technology. This thesis reviews the status of hi-resolution cameras and their present use in construction. Results of a multi-phased survey to industry professionals were collected in order to identify benefits and barriers and develop a cost-benefit model that can be used for implementation technology in construction.

A key element in moving highway construction projects forward is the ability to acquire the Right of Way (ROW) in a timely manner. Delay in the acquisition process due to multitude of causes will usually lead to major construction phase delays. Identifying the delay factors allows for better time management of the process. A detailed review of the acquisition process at the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is used as an example. Reviews of the process in neighboring states are also presented in order to determine other current practices and their likely impact on the acquisition duration. Descriptive and multivariable regression analysis of 35 randomly selected highway projects identified three variables “condemnation”, “number of parcels” and “revisions of plans” for the increase of acquisition duration. Using recognized software with analysis of variance stepwise regression a prediction model is developed and tested for the prediction of acquisition duration. These findings with new processes (forms) and an enhanced flow chart using current information technology procedures are introduced to reduce condemnation cases and to enhance the acquisition process.