The IproK ontology: a unified approach to managing construction project information

Abstract

In the domain of construction project management, holistic decision-making and integrated project controls are paramount for success. However, integrating the vast spectrum of project data is challenging due to disparate software systems and data fragmentation, which leads to information silos and hinders semantic interoperability. An ontology-based framework presents a promising solution for creating a unified and machine-interpretable representation of this complex information. This research paper details the development, validation, and publication of the IproK ontology, a novel framework that provides deep, simultaneous integration of three critical project management domains: schedule, cost, and resources. A multi-faceted evaluation confirmed its technical soundness, conceptual validity according to domain experts, and practical utility by successfully answering all predefined Competency Questions (CQs) essential for integrated project control. IproK provides a validated semantic backbone for creating integrated project Knowledge Graphs, paving the way for next-generation, data-driven decision support systems and more intelligent construction project delivery. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.