PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to investigate and evaluate the impacts of utilising Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction management field. The paper explores how adopting BIM as a lean management tool can improve and expedite a number of processes in building projects, which will ultimately increase project success, cost-effectiveness and efficiency.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive survey was conducted to investigate how BIM deployment as a lean management tool affected project outcomes. This research involved a structured survey amongst construction professionals and a case study on a real project in Bangladesh to assess the effects of using BIM as a lean management tool. The data collected from 112 respondents were analysed statistically and qualitatively to identify the effect of BIM as a lean management tool. Additionally, several software tools, including Revit, Navisworks, Design Review and BIM 360, were used to compare conventional and BIM-based methods.FindingsThe research findings demonstrate that utilising BIM practices improves the quality and safety of construction in Bangladesh. The “Improving the quality of construction” (RII = 0.732) achieved the highest rank in the questionnaire survey. In addition, the case study represents that the construction industry can benefit from BIM-based project management. The BIM implementation can shorten the design process by over 50% and save up to 1.5 weeks by minimising idling time. By applying BIM, it is possible to avoid a price rise of roughly 2.5% and a delay of about 11.9% of the original contract period.Practical implicationsThe significance of the results goes beyond the direct advantages of the project's achievements. The successful integration of BIM as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction sector suggests transformative potential for the industry. The enhanced coordination and decreased errors point to a future where construction projects can achieve higher levels of precision and reliability. The improved efficiency observed implies a more sustainable and cost-effective future for construction projects in the region.Originality/valueThe research provides a unique perspective on the impact of BIM implementation on project outcomes. It includes a comprehensive survey on BIM adoption as a lean management tool, gathering real-world experiences from construction professionals in Bangladesh. The case study explores the practical implications and advantages of implementing BIM in construction projects. By comparing conventional methods with BIM-based approaches and utilising BIM software, the study contributes value to the construction sector.