A.I.M.S. Computer Software

The A.I.M.S. suite of programmes was designed to meet the needs of one of the UK's largest construction companies for a computerised information management system for use on its sites. It started life some 14 years ago as a DOS-based programme, and was completely rewritten in 1996 to its present Windows format.

In its DOS version the program was initially for drawing management only, and one requirement was that it had to be capable of being operated by non-technical clerical staff. That meant that the decisions such as which of several revisions of a drawing is current, and who needs to get which drawing, were made automatically by the program; and records of who has been issued with what were updated automatically whenever transmittal sheets were printed.

Within a short while the benefits of computerisation were extended to cover the management of technical queries, instructions, and correspondence by the creation of three more DOS-based programs. It then became easy for site staff to keep track of, for example, which queries had been answered and which were overdue; which Architects Instructions hadn't been passed on to sub-contractors by way of Site Instructions; and which letters hadn't been answered.

The transition to the Windows format prompted and facilitated improvement of the program's functionality: The most obvious change was that all four programs were combined into one; but others include the capability to create several separate sites or directories, the use of a common file of names and addresses for all four modules, the ability to keep the data on a network drive so that it can be accessed by multiple users, and improved input screens taking advantage of Windows features such as drop-down pick lists.

The Windows version of the A.I.M.S. program has been used by major building and civil engineering contractors in the UK and overseas, on individual sites as well as at regional offices where several separate sites are covered by a single installation. Because it was designed and written by construction professionals, it is a practical program which meets the functional need of any construction site.

If you would like more information on the A.I.M.S. programs, or a free limited-duration fully functional copy of the program, please e-mail info@drawingmanager.co.uk giving your name, company name, and postal address.