BIM Transition Process in Construction Companies

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is considered among the most challenging developments in the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries. BIM is a software based three-dimensional design process that helps the AEC staff obtain and manage the digitally represented building data to support engineering, construction, procurement, and installation activities. The diffusion of the BIM approach in the construction industry has gained acceleration in the last decade. With the advances in information technologies, existence of highly capable commercial software packages, and mandates dictated by the clients, many construction companies have started to employ BIM in their projects. This study aims to investigate the BIM transition process in the construction companies. An interview has been conducted with the executives of a Turkish construction company to analyze the BIM transition process, through three main phases: pre-transition period, transition period, and post-transition period. In the pretransition period, the motivations of the company to adopt the BIM approach are examined. In the transition period, the challenges encountered and preventive measures taken are indicated. In the post-transition period, the short- and long-term effects of adopting the BIM approach are discussed. The study is expected to guide the construction professionals that intend to implement BIM in their transition process.