BIM Experiences and Expectations: The Constructors' Perspective

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications are being rapidly embraced by the construction industry to reduce cost, time, and enhance quality as well as environmental sustainability. As a result many construction firms are gaining experience with these new tools and processes and changing their expectations from university graduates. As many construction programs strive to deliver curriculum and research that is relevant to the industry, it is essential to accurately understand the impact of BIM on the operations and practice of construction companies. Accordingly, this study benchmarks the current status of BIM implementations, organizational structures, training requirements, and strategies of construction companies and examines their expectations from university construction graduates in regard to BIM knowledge and skills. An online survey was devised to understand the current level of BIM expertise and strategies of construction companies and their expectations. The survey invited national and regional U.S. construction companies with a presence in the mid-Atlantic area. The findings of this study support the fact that BIM is growing as an important component of construction operations and provide a benchmark to measure the evolution of BIM practice in construction firms over time and across different sectors. The study provides important insights that inform university construction curricular efforts.