Contractors' Perception of the Factors Affecting Building Information Modelling (BIM) Adoption in the Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is one of the most visible aspects of a deep and fundamental change that is rapidly transforming the global construction industry. It is the platform that brings about collaboration between project stakeholders and improvement of project outcomes. The growing worldwide adoption and implementation of BIM for its powerful data-based modeling, visualization, analysis and simulation capabilities represents a paradigm shift to an integrated digital information infrastructure that will ultimately revolutionize almost all aspects of the construction industry. Many developed economies of the world have recorded impressive outcomes by implementing BIM in their construction practices, and this necessitates the need for an investigation into the level of its awareness and factors affecting its adoption in the Nigerian Construction Industry. The study was undertaken through a survey of Nigerian Building construction firms. The central issues addressed were the awareness of the respondents on BIM, and their perception on the drivers and barriers to its adoption in the Nigerian construction industry. Structured questionnaires and semi-formal interviews were used for data collection. The study highlighted areas requiring attention by researchers, government and other stakeholders towards a country wide implementation of BIM technologies and has set a scene for developing a framework for BIM adoption in the Nigerian construction industry. This will make the industry equipped to operate in line with the global best practices and deliver projects successfully and more efficiently and also be a good market for foreign firms to benefit.