This paper considers the nature of communication on a construction site and proposes an approach to the development of a model of the data-flow in a form suitable for simulation. One purpose of such a simulation is to identify ways in which information technology can be employed more effectively on site with a view to improving construction quality. The paper includes an investigation of the hierarchical nature of the management process and a discussion of some of its practical implications. The major characteristics of the envisaged model are then outlined with the possible benefits of simulation. Some problems concerning the scope of the model and parallels between construction and manufacturing are discussed and conclusions drawn.