by Jeffrey C Kadlowec, Registered Architect

The construction industry is complex and fragmented [1] unlike manufacturing which has become well-refined and high-automated. Challenges remain in labor productivity and performance which are result in project changes and delays. This coupled with inconsistency in information and misinterpretation of plans result misunderstanding by stakeholders that negatively impact company profitability and project sustainability.

The development, implementation and utilization of building information modeling (BIM) software within the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sector provides opportunities to increase productivity and efficiency [1]. This technology is changing the way buildings are designed, constructed and operated. It allows for better collaboration of project stakeholders which offer improvements to project outcome through database modeling, visualization, analysis, and simulation throughout the development phases [2]. The integration of digital information represents a paradigm shift that is revolutionizing the construction industry.

Construction consist of a variety of direct and indirect costs along with the management of a myriad of material and labor resources. BIM allows for the creation of accurate digital virtual construction models which are intended to reduce cost, save time, and provide for more efficient control of a project [3]. Construction documents have historically been 2D representations of buildings with occasional presentation of 3D drawings, renderings or physical models. BIM is a 3D digital model which can also contain 4D (time, schedule) and 5D (material, cost data) information. This type of model, when properly created and maintained, can provide a real-time picture of the entire project from conception to completion.

The primary objectives of any construction project are time, budget, quality, scope of work and customer satisfaction. Focusing on risk management to efficiently mitigate negative aspects that threaten it over the lifecycle is crucial to successful completion [4]. Utilizing modern technology in project management to coordinate various disciplines and multiple stakeholders will raise performance by outlining changing objectives. Research illustrates the many benefits of BIM in construction; a general understanding of the vast array of tools and features will assist in making decisions about how it should be best implemented.

When an AEC organization to ready to adopt BIM, it must first shift workflow and protocols in preparation for the transition. Poor planning of this process will not experience intended benefits, result in project failure, profit losses and abandonment of these new design, documentation and construction administration methods [5]. Organizational readiness from a managerial level is essential to facilitating the rollout; this will include: 1) need for implementing, 2) acquiring knowledge, 3) decision to proceed, 4) evaluation of technical, financial and strategic innovations, 5) allocation of resources, and 6) acquisition, preparation and testing [5]. Similar to handbook published by the National CAD Standard (NCS), the National BIM Standard (NBIMS) provides valuable resources for that endeavor.

Society is defined by comfort level, well-being and quality of life. The goal of the building sector is to provide basic living requirements [6]. Governments prioritize affordable housing by enacting regulations, inadvertently leading to building abandonment, schedule delays, cost overruns and poor quality. Despite the many benefits of BIM, its potential and possibilities have not been fully explored. New means and methods must constantly be developed across all project stages to maximize profits without sacrificing functionality.

References
[1] Famadico, Jerome Jordan. (2023). Building Information Modeling in the Architecture and Construction Industry. Advances in Technology Innovation. 8. 121-135. 10.46604/aiti.2023.9854.
[2] Herumanta, Bambang & Islami, Rizky & Hazhiyah, Amalia. (2022). The Effects of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Implementation in the Success of Construction Projects. International Journal of Engineering Science Technologies. 6. 52-62. 10.29121/ijoest.v6.i3.2022.326.
[3] Tamara, Dewi & Ogan, Syailendra. (2021). The Implementation of Building Information Modeling Technology on Building Construction. EPH – International Journal of Applied Science. 7. 1-10. 10.53555/eijas.v7i3.50.
[4] Abdelalim, Ahmed & Samadony, Adel & Elnaggar, Ahmed. (2023). Investigating the Role of Building Information Modeling in Risk Management of Construction Projects. 10.13140/RG.2.2.16872.44806.
[5] Magalhaes, Rachel & Mello, Luiz & Hippert, Maria Aparecida. (2023). Organizational Readiness for Building Information Modeling. Frontiers in Engineering and Built Environment. 3. 137-152. 10.1108/FEBE-07-2022-0028.
[6] Kineber, Ahmed & Othman, Idris & Famakin, Ibukun & Oke, Ayodeji & Magdy Hamed, Mohammed & Olayemi, Taiwo. (2023). Challenges to the Implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for Sustainable Construction Projects. Applied Sciences. 13. 3426. 10.3390/app13063426.