Project Partners: DTI,
There are many sources of research-based information which do not reach potential users. The "Partners in Technology" and "Partners in Innovation" project outcomes have not all received the level of exposure which they deserve and could usefully be made available to a wider audience. EPSRC research projects often result in publications in specialist research journals and do not reach the wider construction industry community.
The Proceedings of the British Masonry Society and its International Conferences contain a great deal of masonry research information which mostly reaches other researchers only. A number of organisations in the
This project is a scoping study for the feasibility of setting up and maintaining a "One Stop Shop for Masonry Research Information". The project will identify the potential customers for the information and the likely demand and cost factors. The numerous sources of information will be mapped and the basis on which their information can be made available determined. In order to demonstrate the quality of information which could be provided, a prototype web site will be established and customer reaction tested. A full business case will then be presented.
The production of a working prototype web site, database or similar information repository will demonstrate to the construction community the value of having ready access to masonry-related information. Access to the latest findings will encourage designers to be more innovative and use masonry materials to their full potential, thereby improving competitiveness. The information will also provide the latest research findings on construction efficiency, material durability, etc., with links to best practice guidance, thereby assisting builders and specifiers.
Information will also be readily available in support of changes to the Building Regulations and the needs of those engaged in Building
Control. Finally, the research community will benefit from a detailed mapping of recent research, which will avoid unnecessary duplication of effort and help to highlight where further work could be beneficial.