A SURVEY OF THE IMPACTS OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) ON ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE IN NIGERIA
Ogunmakinde, O.E.1, Siyanbola A.B.2 and Oginni, O. E.3
1 Architecture Department, Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State, Nigeria.
2 Department of Architectural Technology, The Polytechnic Ibadan, Oyo State.
3 Department of Architectural Technology, Ogun State Institute of Tech., Igbesa, Ogun State
E-mail: b4bode@yahoo.com, siyanbolabukola@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
The positive impacts of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on the professional services of the main actors in the construction industry cannot be over-emphasized. The future and development of a good architectural master piece depends on decisions made on several levels and by different professionals in the industry. The paper conducted a survey of the impacts of ICT on architectural practice in Nigeria. It also provides an insight into the current usage of ICT in some architectural firms. The data for the study was derived from both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. The quantitative method utilized a structured questionnaire survey while the qualitative method was through interview. Findings however revealed that the core architectural function has been largely computerized while data and document management are gradually being computerized. It also shows that a higher percentage of the respondents are aware and do make use of the ICT gadgets available at their disposal. The paper concluded that effective communication with a good managerial skills and mastering ICT is needed for a contemporary architectural practice in Nigeria.