While much research has been carried into the uses of Information Technologies in construction in certain countries such as the USA, UK and Scandinavia, this area has largely been overlooked by Irish research institutions.

Although much of the international research and work of these national centres is of use to Irish firms, the lack of specific research and an equivalent organisation prior to 2001 was regarded as a contributory factor in the slow progress towards harnessing the potential of IT in the Irish construction sector.

Recognising that a number of countries had already established centres to identify and promote best practice in use of IT in construction (such as Construct IT in the United Kingdom), an early goal of CITA's was to investigate whether a similar approach could be taken by the Irish construction sector.

To actively encourage the Irish Construction sector to take full advantage of current and emerging Information and Communications Technologies.

To inform the Irish construction sector of relevant IT developments

To establish and disseminate best practice in the use of IT in the construction sector

To encourage IT related research and training collaboration between the Irish academic sector and the leading firms in the Irish construction sector

To establish and maintain links with relevant national and international organisations.

To encourage the strategic use of IT by all firms in the Irish construction sector.

The organisation and structure involves participation by executive-level company and academic personnel on the Board of Management, as well as participation of experienced people on CITA Special Interest Groups.

This participation is critical to the success of CITA.