- Author
-
Wright, R. N.
- Title
- Technology for Competitiveness of the U.S. Construction Industry.
- Coporate
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
- Report
-
NISTIR 89-4099
May 1989
41 p.
- Distribution
- Available from National Technical Information Service
- Keywords
-
building construction
|
competitiveness
|
technology transfer
- Abstract
- Construction is one of the nation's largest industries. Constructed facilities shelter and support most human activities. Their quality affects the competitiveness of all U.S. industry and the safety and quality of life of every citizen. However, U.S. government and private data show that the U.S. construction industry is declining in its share of the gross national product, and losing in both domestic and international market share to foreign competitors. Analyses of causes show that lack of a program for competitiveness and loss of technological leadership are important factors in the declining competitiveness of the U.S. construction industry. A strategy based on open systems for construction products and services is proposed for competitiveness. Private and public sector activities in technology transfer, development of improved construction technologies, and research are identified for attainment of international technical leadership. A responsive program, including interactions with other major players in the private and public sectors is suggested for the Center for Building Technology of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.