Abstract
PurposeNew methods have been introduced as revolutionary approaches in the construction industry, such as off-site manufacturing (OSM) and building information modelling (BIM). Although these approaches can provide many benefits, there are still barriers to meeting the expectations of improved construction productivity via their implementation. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to critically review the capabilities of OSM and BIM techniques, as well as their potential interactions, in productivity improvement.Design/methodology/approachA scoping review approach was adopted, where 100 peer-reviewed journal articles were collected to analyse the capabilities of OSM and BIM, as well as their potential interactions, in productivity improvement as assessed by key productivity indicators (KPrIs).FindingsThe results reveal seven BIM-based capabilities and six OSM-based capabilities, as well as 12 potential OSM–BIM interactions that have significant potential for satisfying KPrIs.Originality/valueAn integrated framework has also been developed to clarify and conceptualise the roles of OSM–BIM interactions in their designated KPrIs. The research has developed insightful and practical references for strategic planning and management in OSM–BIM-based projects.
Highlights
Construction professionals have always searched for new methods to improve productivity
The United Kingdom (UK) government has the same approach to Building Information Modelling (BIM) and has even regulated the mandatory measure to use of BIM Level 2 on certain projects (Khosrowshahi & Arayici, 2012; Ganah & John, 2014)
A scoping review was adopted and the pathway was developed based on the question, ‘which productivity indicators have the capacity to be affected so as to optimise project progress?’, followed by another question: ‘which indicators could be affected via the interaction of these two concepts and how do these capabilities overlap or work individually?’ For this purpose, initially key productivity indicators (KPrIs) need to be developed through the literature review before investigating the effects of BIM and Off-Site Manufacturing (OSM) on these indicators
Summary
Construction professionals have always searched for new methods to improve productivity. In response to stakeholders and end users’ expectations, the interactions between these new technologies have put on the agenda to optimise time, cost and quality, as the main aspects determining construction performance (Aliakbarlou et al, 2018). These new concepts can be applied to projects independently, some characteristics of each concept will cover the others via hybrid concepts to improve the stages of the project. The capabilities of BIM include highly accurate information regarding the specifications of components, visualisation of the project and site via a 3D model, a rapid informationsharing platform for early decision-making and optimum planning/scheduling, all of which can promote productivity in OSM-based construction projects
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