Building Information Modeling Knowledge Research Articles

Building information modeling (BIM) adoption for enhanced legal and contractual management in construction projects

Building information modeling (BIM) adoption offers significant benefits for construction projects, including enhanced collaboration and legal/contractual management. However, the impacts of BIM deployment on construction contracts and dispute resolution remain unclear. This research analyzed the regulatory and legal implications of BIM adoption in construction industry via a framework evaluating Contractual Frameworks (CF), Dispute Resolution (DR), Legal Awareness (LA), and Risk Management (RM). Fifteen qualitative interviews with construction industry experts provided key insights. The results showed CF, DR, and LA have a large positive impact on BIM adoption, while RM has a smaller effect. Specifically, clearly defined BIM protocols in contracts, efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, and legal knowledge of BIM are essential to ensure effective deployment. These findings imply construction project managers should proactively address contractual and legal factors to manage risks, encourage collaboration, and adhere to regulations when implementing BIM. This research makes a significant contribution by addressing the lack of empirical insights on the contractual and legal aspects of BIM adoption. The qualitative methodology provides in-depth perspectives from experienced industry practitioners. The findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders worldwide seeking to leverage BIM. Further comparative research across regions and industries would continue to advance comprehension of the legal implications of BIM adoption.

The Awareness and Knowledge Levels of Building Information Modeling Among Architecture Students: A Survey-Based Study

The present study aims to investigate the awareness of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Turkey from students' perspectives. While numerous studies in the literature have explored BIM awareness in the industry, research specifically focused on students is scarce. Thus, this study aims to contribute a new and current perspective to the existing literature by measuring student awareness based on empirical evidence. By doing so, it intends to provide valuable insights for future research and curriculum development. The research utilized the results of a survey conducted in 2022 involving the participation of 34 fourth-year students in the architecture program. The findings indicate that students have heard about and even utilized the concept of Building Information Modeling, but their knowledge of this technological development needs to be more comprehensive. The survey was designed to assess the students' BIM awareness level to explore their understanding and proficiency in using BIM. The results revealed that students need to learn more about the technological elements and components that constitute BIM. This limitation hampers their potential to utilize BIM in practice effectively. The outcomes of this study underscore the necessity for architecture education programs to adopt a more comprehensive approach to BIM. Developing educational and informational strategies that enhance students' knowledge of BIM is imperative. The findings of this study serve as a valuable resource for increasing BIM awareness in architectural education and facilitating students' adaptation to this technology.

Potentials of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Managing Variations

As property development and information technologies are going rapid in these few decades, information construction becomes necessarily as a management tool. Changes and variations in construction projects are common and inevitable. This paper aims to study potentials of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in managing variations. The research objective is to identify the potentials of BIM in managing variations. Qualitative method was adopted for this research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the respondents to collect data. Twelve respondents were chosen based on the following criteria: (a) involved in BIM projects and (b) experts with BIM knowledge. The respondents involved in the interviews are BIM software providers, BIM software resellers, BIM consultants, main contractors and government personnel in Malaysia. From the interview findings, the potentials of BIM in managing variations are to reduce the variations due to design-related changes, material-related changes, information discrepancies and construction method. Resolving design-related changes includes better visualisation, design coordination, clash detection, better decision making and minimised uncertainties. Managing material-related changes involves automated quantity taking-off, detailed plan for visualisation and material purchase plan. Reducing information discrepancies involves data digitalisation, communication and collaboration, real-time tracking changes as well as improved on request for information (RFI) process. Minimising variations due to construction method includes simulation, better site management and prefabrication with BIM. This research proves that it is necessary to promote BIM management approach in managing variations.

Overview of BIM contributions in the construction phase: review and bibliometric analysis

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a revolutionary invention within the construction industry that essentially aids the design, construction and management of construction projects throughout their lifespan. Globally, the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry has for decades progressively adopted and implemented BIM. While there are several papers in this context, none have tried to extensively document BIM’s comprehensive contributions and uses in the construction phase. Therefore, this paper aims to identify BIM’s various contributions and uses in the construction phase and analyze publication trends, co-occurring keywords, contributing authors and countries. A systematic overview approach was used to review published articles on state-of-the-art of BIM in construction, supported by bibliometric network mapping analysis. A total of 409 documents were extracted and analyzed. The study’s findings document BIM’s various uses and contributions to the AEC industry, such as simulation of each stage of the construction process, virtual presentation of the building and site, visualization of progress, management of construction work, enhancement of safety, communication and collaboration, quick generation of reliable and accurate cost estimates, assistance in the fast realization of return on investment (ROI), and serving as a platform that hosts and documents various technological tools used during the construction phase. The bibliometric analysis reveals the most contributing scholars, countries, document sources, trend network mapping of co-occurring keywords, and publication trends. The primary practical implications of this study’s discoveries can be exploited as a basis for further research and to influence the future direction of BIM in the AEC industry. The findings will enhance the wider spread, application and understanding of BIM in the AEC industry, thereby increasing BIM awareness and knowledge globally.

Strategies for enhancing the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the construction industry

BIM implementation is still low in construction, especially in developing countries. The study aims to identify the most effective strategies to improve BIM implementation in the construction industry. A quantitative approach was a means of data collection. There were no statistically significant differences in respondents’ opinions about the process of enhancing BIM implementation based on educational qualification, age bracket, or the number of BIM projects handled. However, there was based on the participants’ specialization and years of working experience. Multiple linear regression was conducted to investigate whether the strategies to improve BIM implementation in the construction industry could significantly predict the level of BIM knowledge/awareness. The findings indicate that three independent variables significantly predict the level of BIM knowledge, F (5, 61) = 8.795, p < 0.001. However, government support and national standard have an insignificant impact on the dependent variable. Also, the R2 = 0.419 depicts that the model explains 41.9% of the variance in the level of BIM knowledge. The research results have implications for enhancing BIM implementation in AEC projects and may increase industry effectiveness.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) Adoption for Cost Engineering Consultant; Case Study of Southern China

Digital construction has paved its way into the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industries with the technological revolution, which significantly change the design, construction, and management processes. The use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) presents a valued collaborative technology that eliminates most communication related challenges of the industry. The Chinese government has emerged as a major force promoting BIM adoption, by implementing policies and promoting efforts with government support. Yet, the adoption rate is still unsatisfactory particularly for China cost engineering industry. This paper examines the drivers and barriers of BIM adoption and consequently review its impact on the current BIM implementation processes. This study also investigated their awareness and acceptance level of BIM adoption. The main respondents are the cost engineering practitioner specifically in the area of Guangxi. The UTAUT and TAM model are adopted, to analyse on individual intention and behaviour by distributing online questionnaires. This analysis reveals that the practitioners have poor awareness of BIM and have no willingness to learn new BIM knowledge independently. At present, the proportion of BIM actual use in projects is relatively low, and no single post-construction maintenance project applied BIM technology. The main influencing factors for BIM adoption are measured based on the Performance Expectation, Effort Expectation, Generation Gap, Social Influence, Managerial Attitude and Facilitating Conditions. This paper contributes to the strategic suggestions that puts forward the role of user, consultants, governments that may facilitate the advantages of BIM technology adoption. This paper identified that successful implementation include the role of consultants on their readiness and acceptance, followed by adequate technology education and training.

A Study on the Building Information Modeling (BIM) Adoption among Construction Companies in China: A One Belt One Road Critical Success Approach

This conceptual paper explores the critical success factors (CSFs) for Building Information Modeling (BIM) adoption among construction companies in the context of China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative. The identified CSFs include organizational culture, technological readiness, government policies and regulations, stakeholder collaboration, project complexity and size, data management and interoperability, training and education, return on investment (ROI), sustainability and environmental considerations, and continuous improvement and innovation. The study draws on existing literature, industry reports, and case studies to analyze the significance of these factors in promoting successful BIM implementation within the OBOR framework. Organizational culture emphasizes the importance of leadership support, change management strategies, and employee engagement. Technological readiness focuses on the availability of hardware, software, IT infrastructure, and technical competencies. Government policies and regulations play a crucial role in facilitating BIM integration. Stakeholder collaboration emphasizes effective communication and coordination. Project complexity and size require tailored strategies. Data management and interoperability ensure seamless information exchange. Training and education enhance BIM skills and knowledge. Demonstrating ROI encourages organizational buy-in. Sustainability and environmental considerations align BIM with OBOR objectives. Continuous improvement and innovation drive ongoing enhancement of BIM implementation. Understanding and addressing these CSFs can support construction companies in successfully adopting BIM within the OBOR context.

EXPLORING THE IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES OF ADOPTING BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM) IN ABUJA, NIGERIA

Nigeria's construction industry is facing significant challenges such as low productivity, high costs, and poor quality of buildings, and adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) can address these issues, but its adoption has been very slow in Nigeria. This paper aimed at investigating the level of awareness and usage of BIM, factors affecting the adoption, socio-economic benefits of its adoption and barriers and challenges affecting the adoption of BIM in Abuja, Nigeria. 363 structured questionnaires were administered on civil, mechanical &amp; electrical engineers, quantity surveyors, architects and builders in Abuja, out of which 249 valid responses were received and the data obtained was carefully analyzed using descriptive analysis, relative importance index, and mean item score. While 87.95% of the respondents claim that they have heard the BIM concept before, only 19.27% rate their usage and knowledge of BIM as high or very high, this shows that most of the respondents currently do not use BIM in their day-to-day activities. The study shows that BIM education, affordability, ability to gain competitive edge, vision from management and ease of use as some of the most important factors affecting the adoption of BIM in Nigeria. It also highlighted the improvement of visualization &amp; design review, reduction in risk level, improvement of quality, productivity, client satisfaction and project documentation as the most important benefits derivable from the use of BIM. The paper also shows that high cost of training, lack of government support, lack of education, information, investment, ICT infrastructure, power supply and demand from clients as the most important challenges hindering its adoption in Nigeria. The Nigerian construction industry may realize the benefits of BIM in terms of improved project outcomes, increased productivity, and increased efficiency by overcoming these barriers and encouraging a collaborative approach. Key suggestions for enhancing BIM adoption in Nigeria were made in this paper, including but not limited to incorporating BIM into curricula for the built environment, providing professionals with awareness programs and training and establishment of national BIM standards by the government.

Investigation Toward the Adoption of Building Information Modelling in Algeria from Architects’ Perspective

This study attempts to identify and assess the individual perceptions of building information modelling (BIM) benefits and implementation barriers in the construction industry in Algeria from architects’ perspective. An investigation was carried out through survey questionnaires distributed to Algerian architects with different profiles. A total of 100 questionnaires were used for the study. A subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate the differences in the individual perception of the different groups of architects segmented according to the respondent’s work type, organisation size, experience length and computer-aided design (CAD) and BIM knowledge. The findings of the study revealed that the most important barriers to BIM implementation were people and policy factors. The subgroup analysis revealed that the architects working for design firms were more aware and had more readiness for adopting BIM compared to those working for project owners and contractors. Moreover, there were differences in the BIM maturity level between the large and small organisations in Algeria. It was concluded that at the actual BIM maturity level, BIM implementation would not occur without the implication of local authorities and policymakers, as they have a significant impact on promoting and accelerating BIM adoption in the country.

Research on Teaching Practice System Based on BIM

Building information modeling (BIM) course is a subject course integrating project management course and BIM Technology. BIM-based engineering project teaching is different from traditional engineering project management. It has many advantages such as information creation, information management, digital management of information sharing, and so on, which improves the integration of project management as a whole. Therefore, it is crucial to improve the curriculum system of colleges and universities by setting up BIM courses, and to integrate BIM knowledge into the curriculum system. Setting up BIM courses and integrating BIM knowledge into the curriculum system have also been the highlight for colleges and universities. The engineering management major of the university is combined with the BIM curriculum system to adjust the relevant talent training plan. Foreign countries have gradually integrated BIM technology into the classroom teaching system, and domestic curriculum teaching is undergoing a reform and is under development. Through a systematic link between theory and practical education, a targeted, accurate, and efficient characteristic curriculum system for engineering management specialty has been developed.

BIM knowledge transfer in construction industry: a partial least square analysis

PurposeThere are several technologies positively impacting the management of construction projects. Building information modelling (BIM) is one such technology, slowly changing project delivery. However, enhancing knowledge transfer (KT) within the construction industry is crucial because of the characteristic slow uptake of innovation. Therefore, this study aims to establish the effectiveness of the KT mechanism for BIM implementation in construction organisations.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted a quantitative research method where a structured questionnaire was distributed to construction professionals. A partial least square structural equation modeling path analysis was used to test the direct and indirect relationships of computer self-efficacy (CS), perceived ease of use (PEOU), KT and BIM usage.FindingsThis study found that CS could improve KT, which will, in turn, increase the implementation of BIM within construction organisations. However, in terms of KT, individuals’ confidence and ability to use BIM inspires them to share the knowledge of BIM they had received through training. Furthermore, this study found that the ease of interacting, learning and being skilful with BIM may not necessarily ensure the actual transfer of knowledge.Originality/valueThis study provides valuable insights into KTs (BIM implementation) in the construction industry. It will enhance the use of BIM systems and related knowledge through effective training amongst construction practitioners. Other previous studies have focused on challenges and barriers to BIM implementation, this study goes deeper into establishing the effectiveness of the KT mechanism for BIM implementation in construction organisations.

BIM and ontology-based knowledge management for dam safety monitoring

Dam Safety Monitoring Systems (DSMSs) are crucial in evaluating the operational state of dams. However, heterogeneous monitoring data distributed from multiple sources during the dam operation lacks a unified data integration method and prohibits knowledge extraction and intelligent analysis, which currently poses a labor-intensive task. To address this issue, a solution relying on Building Information Modeling (BIM) and domain ontologies is proposed. Specifically, a DSMS domain ontology (OntoDSMS) is developed by comprehensively collecting domain knowledge and extracting context information from the dam information model. Furthermore, a rule-based reasoner and SPARQL queries are implemented. The proposed approach facilitates the effective integration of dam safety monitoring information while reducing retrieval time effectively compared with traditional databases. A case is illustrated to demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed approach.

Learning on the job through collaborative learning: analysing the appropriation of BIM knowledge in micro-enterprise architectural design companies

The lack of Building Information Modelling (BIM) knowledge appropriation by Architectural, Engineering, Construction and Operation (AECO) professionals is often considered one of the main obstacles to successful BIM implementation. Although barriers to implementation have been substantially investigated, a literature review on knowledge appropriation revealed that this area is poorly investigated and biased towards small and medium construction companies. The review also shows that no published research has addressed micro-enterprise design firms, despite these representing approximately 90% of the firms in the AECO sector. In this context, this research investigates whether collaborative learning can be a teaching and learning strategy for appropriating BIM knowledge in architectural design micro-enterprises. The Zone of Proximal Development concept and the Collaborative Learning method were the theoretical lenses to study BIM knowledge appropriation. The research method involved documental analysis of four years of data from a micro-enterprise. The data was classified into vertical collaboration, diagonal collaboration; horizontal collaboration; and individual action. Results show a progressive development of the professionals’ (BIM knowledge) autonomy, as they gradually moved from individual action and vertical collaboration relationships to diagonal and horizontal collaboration actions. The evidence indicates that teaching and learning strategies can contribute to the appropriation of BIM knowledge in the context of micro and small companies.

Implementation of Kirkpatrick evaluation model in Building Information Modeling (BIM) training program

This research aims to evaluate BIM WIKA Intermediate Allplan training, especially batch 8. The evaluation guide used refers to Kirkpatrick's evaluation model which is limited to levels 1 and 2. This research uses evaluation research methods with a quantitative approach. The respondents in this study were all participants who had participated in the BIM WIKA Intermediate Allplan Batch 8 training series from beginning to the end. The data was collected using questionnaires and testing instruments. The data obtained was analyzed using a weighting formula from Kirkpatrick to determine participant’s reaction to the training program, as well as improvement and achievement of participant’s learning outcomes during training activities. The result of participant’s reaction evaluation to implementation of BIM WIKA Allplan Intermediate Training Program in batch 8 raised a high positive reaction from trainees. Where’s the highest satisfaction’s level is training material component by 89%, and the lowest satisfaction’s level is learning media component by 80%. Meanwhile, in learning evaluation, it was found that the training can increase BIM knowledge for most of trainees, and they were able to practice the knowledge gained during training by conducting practical tests well.

Use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in planning and managing the life cycle of buildings

Many studies and research point to a growing trend in industrial digitization. New materials, technologies and advanced automation tools are increasingly being promoted in the construction industry. With the increasing degree of digitization, various ways and methods of planning, management and control across different construction processes are also increasing. BIM is a unified information system that enables the sharing of documentation, supports communication, streamlines individual processes, helps eliminate errors and increases quality. Based on this fact, the paper analyses the current state of use of Building Information Modelling in planning and managing the life cycle of buildings in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The current state of knowledge and use of BIM, defining the advantages and possible barriers to its use, examining the scope and potential of BIM implementation within the building life cycle and defining tools and applications used in time and financial planning of construction production were analysed. The paper also briefly examines how the implementation of BIM can affect selected key tasks of the preparation and valuation professions.

Performance Evaluation of Project Management Implementation by BIM in Trans Sumatera Toll Road Case Study: Simpang Indralaya-Prabumulih Segment

PT Hutama Karya (Persero) (PT HK), which one of the Indonesian State-Owned Company (SOE) that was assigned to operate the Trans Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS), has implemented Building Information Modeling (BIM) for construction control in terms of Cost, Quality, and Time since 2021. The Indralaya-Prabumulih intersection is one of the projects implementing BIM, which is expected to be a solution for completing this 65 km project. However, there are still inconsistencies in its implementation, as evidenced by the assessment carried out from January 2021 to October 2021, where achievements above 100% occurred in the first five months. However, starting from the sixth month, a decline of 83% began. This condition continued until the 10th month when the scores were below 100%, and some were even below 75%. It is necessary to evaluate the performance of BIM implementation at PT HK and find the alternative to improve performance of BIM Implementation. The cause of the implementation of BIM at PT HK, which has not reached the expected target, is due to several obstacles, namely the making of the DED 3D model image using BIM is slow, the 3D model shop image is not following the development schedule, and the BIM infrastructure cannot be implemented properly. Based on the analysis, several dominant problems must be resolved, namely standard procedures that are not following conditions in the field, a corporate culture that has not placed BIM as important and has not been able to adapt to technology quickly, and a new company has developed a KM system so that the transfer of BIM knowledge has not gone well. The proposed alternative solution is to eliminate Non Value Added Activity by making a Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN) for making shop drawings, changing culture with the ADKAR concept and choosing a Knowledge Management System with the Analytic Hierarchy Process. The proposed alternative solution is expected to improve the performance of BIM implementation in PT HK.

A Review of Advancements in Robotic and Sensor-based Technologies in Construction Sector

The study explores recent innovations in robotic and sensor-based technologies that are spearheading advancements in the construction sector to achieve improvements in construction quality, efficiency, and safety. Automation in construction, although coined as a concept in 1980s, has witnessed minimal progress in the level of application. The study attempts to identify issues constraining adoption of automation in the sector, the recent developments in technologies and their scope in construction, their applications and impacts, and way forward. The role of robotics in various stages of construction and its impact on a wider scale has been identified and discussed. The evolution of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has transitioned it into being an efficient mediator in the construction process with novel concepts such as 4D and 5D BIM and Building Knowledge Management. Various sensor technologies, functioning at diverse scales, have found wide-ranging applications on construction sites ranging from high-accuracy positioning to slow-tracking of personnel and materials, as well as, in progress monitoring and quality control. Information Technology has a major role in binding the sensor technology with on-site requirements to create positive results. A study was done to identify such technological interventions and various software utilities which integrate BIM and sensor technology with tools such as GIS. The factors which restrained developments in automation in construction sector were identified in the course of study. Various global examples of advanced automated construction technologies with applications in various stages of construction were discussed. The review successfully identifies the nascent technological innovations and their productive usage in relevant areas of construction sector.

CLASSIFICATION OF CONSTRUCTION FIRMS BASED ON BIM ROLES AND BIM LEVELS USING MACHINE LEARNING TECHNIQUES

Abstract. Application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) within the AEC industry has been evolving. With new developments and increasing capabilities, BIM is reshaping the design, construction, and operation, and maintenance processes and revolutionizing the entire functions of building life cycles. To maximize BIM benefits and take advantage of its capabilities, it is imperative that project stakeholders define specific roles and responsibilities within projects; to employ professionals with high levels of BIM proficiency, expertise, and knowledge. This study aims to classify the construction firms into different clusters based on their BIM capabilities, implementation, BIM levels, and type of BIM roles they employ for construction projects. It will further predict and classify BIM levels at company level according to its usage. The methodology was based on a survey design which consisted of application an online questionnaire that was distributed to AEC professionals in the industry. 61 suitable responses were analysed, using different supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, including Cluster Analysis, K-Nearest Neighbours algorithm (k-NN), Random Forest, and Gradient Boosting. The findings showed most firms were not applying BIM on their projects and the majority of those that did were not utilizing it in its full potential. Firms were further classified in terms of BIM levels and types of BIM applications they utilize on construction projects. The results showed that Random Forest had the highest performance and the most accuracy, comparing with KNN and Gradient Boosting, even though the performance and predictions results produced by all models were in proximity of one another.

Challenges and Strategies to Integrate Building Information Modelling (BIM) into Quantity Surveying Programme in Sarawak Higher Education Institutions

In Malaysia, Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and Public Work Department (PWD) promote construction players to integrate Building Information Modelling (BIM) into the construction industry through seminars, and the BIM roadmap is provided as guideline. In addition, there are some organizations required Quantity Surveying (QS) graduates to be equipped with BIM. However, BIM knowledge and skills are confined in term of its practicality in term of collaboration and implementation. Moreover, higher education institutions of QS programme are not parallel with industry&amp;rsquo;s demand, and the knowledge and skills provided are insufficient with industry&amp;rsquo;s requirements. Therefore, this research will focus on determining the challenges and strategies to integrate BIM into QS programme in Sarawak higher education institutions. This study adopted a questionnaire survey, which targeted at the academicians from higher education institutions offering QS programme in Sarawak. Data collected were analyses using mean score, standard deviation, factor analysis, and ranking. The study identified 20 challenges and 10 strategies. Through factor analysis, the study grouped the identified challenges into few major factors. This study is relevant to QS programme as well as other related disciplines within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) context.

Embedding knowledge into BIM: A case study of extending BIM with firefighting plans

Building information modelling (BIM) has revolutionized production and operations management in the construction industry. Currently, however, the BIM environment can integrate only basic static information. Expert knowledge information to guide the building activity process is lacking. Consequently, with the increasing complexity of building services, BIM has difficulty adapting to the needs of rapid collaboration in the building operation process. To solve this problem, first, we present the basic knowle-dge-embedded model. The model provides services for knowledge generation and knowledge embedding. Moreover, taking BIM-based fire emergency management as an example, the formal modelling and credibility verification of knowledge are adopted to standardize the knowledge generated from experts to reduce future input errors and interpretation. Second, to provide the capability of process knowledge representation in BIM, we embedded the knowledge of the fire emergency management process into BIM by extending the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard and providing a BIM knowledge extraction algorithm using the IFC standard, thereby extracting the control strategy from BIM to achieve the reasoning of knowledge. Finally, we prototyped BIM-Fire in a real building scenario and validated the effectiveness of the method. The automatic control of knowledge-driven BIM-based activities is realized.