Robert has spent over 30 years working on the application of computer science research in the architecture, engineering, and construction domains.

Prior to his return to NZ in 2000 he spent 5 years in the UK developing Construction IT initiatives at the Building Research Establishment. This included the development of National and European-wide Internet-based information gateways. In NZ he has been part of the national BIM Acceleration Committee, he coordinates the CIB W78 working group on IT in Construction, and is Editor-in-Chief of the IT in Construction international journal.