Assessing the Utilization of Building Information Modelling Software for Project Planning in Construction Industries in Ondo State

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the utilization of building information modelling (BIM) software for project planning in construction industries in Ondo-State. Approach/Methodology/Design: Three research questions guided the study. A survey research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study comprised of 31 construction industries with 126 Contractors and Building consultants in construction industries in Ondo-State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire consisting of 41 items developed by the ERASMUS + programme was used for data collection. Two experts from the Department of Industrial Technical Education (Building/Woodwork), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and one expert from Bablor Construction Company, Akure South, Ondo-State validated the instrument. The reliability co-efficient of the instrument was 0.86. Data collected were analyzed using mean to answer the research questions, while t-test was used to answer the hypotheses. Findings: It was found that the extent to which building information modelling (BIM) software are utilized are still very low. The study therefore, recommend that education and training programmes on BIM software uses should be organized for construction industries, BIM should be made compulsory for all personnel involved in construction process and a standard contract document should be made available by the government/professional bodies for all building constructors to ensure the usability of BIM for construction project to enhance the construction design, process, analyze and resolve potential hazards and ensure that the building project is completed timely. Practical Implications: The study revealed the benefit of BIM software application for project planning Hence, the importance of BIM software cannot be overemphasized in achieving high building quality, innovative virtual design and project management in the modern world. Originality/value: This paper shows that Building information modelling software is an innovative way to practically design and manage project plan. BIM adoption is needed to enhance building performance and operation.