REVAMPED TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE FOR BUILDING PROFESSIONALS OFFERS ENHANCED USABILITY AND DESIGN

September 27, 2005, Upper Marlboro, Md.—The NAHB Research Center today announced the launch of the newly redesigned PATH Technology Inventory, the building industry’s online resource for practical information on innovative construction products and practices that can improve housing performance.

Redesigned to include enhanced search capabilities and support for streaming media, in its new format the PATH Technology Inventory will more effectively provide builders, trade contractors, and remodelers access to comprehensive information on over 160 building technologies. Created through the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH) Program and administered by the NAHB Research Center, the Technology Inventory is an essential tool in accelerating the awareness and acceptance process for these beneficial technologies.

Redesign of the PATH Technology Inventory was initiated to meet the changing needs of building professionals by improving usability and navigation, and providing access to information more quickly, and in greater detail. The effort was executed over a six month period during which the Research Center conducted focus groups and surveys with builders and remodelers to assess the types of enhancements that would provide end-users with the most benefit. As a result, data enhancements include additional information on codes, product installation, ease of implementation, cost, and builder testimonials. The improved functionality includes increased compatibility with today’s major search engines, database driven content for more frequent updates, and support for new media sources such as detailed CAD drawings and streaming audio and video. Future enhancements will also include distributor listings and broadband capability.

As building professionals respond to the steady increase in consumer demand for more innovative products and higher performing homes, interest in and reliance on the PATH Technology Inventory as a trusted source of information has also increased. Shawn Martin, director of Applied Technology for the NAHB Research Center stated, “There are a number of technologies entering the marketplace that demonstrate great potential for improving housing performance, but have not yet been widely accepted. I am confident that the enhanced features and improved usability of the Technology Inventory will further accelerate awareness and implementation.”

PATH and NAHB Research Center technical experts actively seek technology information from researchers, trade associations, and manufacturers for inclusion in the Technology Inventory. Aside from this proactive solicitation, industry groups or individuals can also submit a technology for review.

Submissions are reviewed according to their technical and performance merits, as well as for their market potential, however PATH conducts no formal testing or evaluation. PATH also selects technologies from the Technology Inventory for use in Field Evaluations and Site Demonstrations.

For more information about the PATH Technology Inventory visit the NAHB Research Center’s ToolBase Services website at www.ToolBase.org, or to submit a technology for consideration, contact Mallika Kishen at (301)-430-6234 or at mkishen@nahbrc.org.