BIDXML: An Extensible Markup Language (XML)

BidXML provides a model based on Extensible Markup Language (XML) to standardize the bidding information. As a case study, the bidding process in different State Department of Transportation (USA) was thoroughly studied. XML was selected to create this model because it is envisioned to be the predominant data exchange standard over the web for providing a universal, flexible, and open data format standard. BidXML provides a standardized way to input, modify, and exchange of bidding information by all the participants involved in the bidding process. Utilizing the XML Schema Definition (XSD) Language, the research first defined a data representation Schema called BidXML that effectively models the bidding information in an open format. Bidding information pertaining to each construction project will then be represented by individual XML document that are based on the BidXML Schema. BidXML will also facilitate exchanging the data among various players in the construction industry. Moreover, this data will be easily integrated with other software used for scheduling, estimating, and contract administration.