How to unlock BIM capabilities in the design phase to project success for long-term organization development?

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PurposeExplore how the AECO organizations can establish BIM capabilities in the design phase to ensure project success for long-term development.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative approach through the application of structural equation modeling with the partial least squares method (PLS-SEM). This study performs a path analysis and hypothesis testing through the PLS method using the SmartPLS 4.0 software.FindingsThe paper demonstrates that simply adopting BIM is not enough for project success. The lack of preparation for adopting BIM can even have a negative effect on project success, since the structure, technology and designers may not be prepared to integrate all project requirements into BIM models. For effective project success, the article demonstrates that the indirect effect of building BIM capabilities must be considered.Research limitations/implicationsThe proposed model can serve as a guide for organizational strategy by showing managers the main variables to be considered for long-term survival. The article also warns that the isolated adoption of BIM can be detrimental to the success of projects. However, the lack of BIM capabilities can exclude the organization from the market, as it may not be prepared to recognize project opportunities and not incorporate technologies.Practical implicationsThe limitation is that the data are not longitudinal; therefore, they are conditioned by the current perceptions of AECO industry professionals about BIM adoption. The results of this research reflect the perception of professionals in the Brazilian construction industry only.Social implicationsAlthough social implications are not directly addressed in the model, the potential for improving project success in the AECO industry suggests broader positive impacts on project management in the AECO industry. Furthermore, these advances can contribute to better urban planning, improved infrastructure and overall social well-being, impacting quality of life by influencing public policy and shaping public attitudes toward construction and development.Originality/valueUsing strategic innovation theories as a theoretical framework for building BIM capabilities, the paper expands this theory by establishing that BIM capabilities are fundamental to sustaining the survival of AECO industry organizations. The paper demonstrates that BIM capabilities are what prepare organizations to adapt to new technologies and strategic resources oriented toward innovation. In this sense, the adoption of BIM itself is an initial step towards building these capabilities, since once the adaptation phase is over, the organization is prepared to optimize its processes with other technologies.