This paper will explore the use of electronic tools and databases to facilitate efficient use of
protective coatings for corrosion control. Electronic tools and databases are available which
may impact quality assurance, condition assessment, maintenance planning, and expert systems.
For various reasons, few of the tools which are developed gain widespread acceptance
or use. Collecting and managing data for corrosion control coatings remains a paper-intensive
activity for most owners. The paper will review the author's experience in assisting in the development
of several different systems and the lessons learned in the implementation of such
systems within the Department of Defense (DoD), private industry, and the bridge industry.
The intent is to help future designers developing such systems.