Potential features of building information modeling (BIM) for application of project management knowledge areas in the construction industry

Abstract

The construction industry (CI) plays a vital role in infrastructure development and improves the socio-economic status with employment opportunities and contribution to gross domestic progress (GDP) of countries. However, its productivity has diminished in recent years due to increasing complexities in construction projects (CPs) and lack of adoption of novel technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM). Also, there is a significant need of polishing the capabilities of construction practitioners to meet the project requirements in agreement with project management knowledge areas (PMKAs). This study, therefore, focused on identification and evaluation of factors necessary for measurement of extent of application of PMKAs. Subsequently, noteworthy features of BIM helpful for enhancing the capabilities of project managers (PMs) in application of PMKAs were identified from literature. A total of thirty-three factors for measurement of extent of application of PMKAs and sixty-six features of BIM helpful in enhancing the capabilities of PMs in application of PMKAs were found. The detailed study and analysis of these ninety-nine factors with the help of previous studies suggested that extent of application of PMKAs is measured with three sub-tasks i.e., plan, manage/develop, and monitor/control. In addition, by virtue of remarkable features and services of BIM, it helps in enhancing the capabilities of PMs in applying PMKAs: project integration, scope, cost, time, quality, resource, communications, procurement, risk, safety, and stakeholder management.