Building Information Modeling (BIM): Trends, Benefits, Risks, and Challenges for the AEC Industry

Abstract

Building information modeling (BIM) is one of the most promising recent developments in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. With BIM technology, an accurate virtual model of a building is digitally constructed. This model, known as a building information model, can be used for planning, design, construction, and operation of the facility. It helps architects, engineers, and constructors visualize what is to be built in a simulated environment to identify any potential design, construction, or operational issues. BIM represents a new paradigm within AEC, one that encourages integration of the roles of all stakeholders on a project. In this paper, current trends, benefits, possible risks, and future challenges of BIM for the AEC industry are discussed. The findings of this study provide useful information for AEC industry practitioners considering implementing BIM technology in their projects.L e a d e r s h i p a n d M a n a g e m e n t

A Literature Review of the Factors Limiting the Application of Bim in the Construction Industry

“…BIM can be applied to every stage of a construction project from inception to demolition (Autodesk 2002;Eastman et al 2008;Azhar et al 2011). …”

“…For example, Chuck Eastman et al (2008) discuss the benefits at each of the four construction stages: pre-construction, design, construction and fabrication, and post-construction, although some of the benefits they discuss are not currently available but can be expected as BIM technology develops. Salman Azhar et al (2011) summarize eight kinds of benefits: accurate geometrical representation, faster and more effective processes, better design, controlled whole-life costs and environmental data, better production quality, automated assembly, better customer service, and lifecycle data. Case studies of construction projects that use BIM indicate that there are 8-15% savings on new projects and up to 35% savings on repeat projects; these savings are the result of reusing information, having more (and better) decision-making information earlier, and better early-phase analysis (Jernigan 2007).…”

“…Case studies of construction projects that use BIM indicate that there are 8-15% savings on new projects and up to 35% savings on repeat projects; these savings are the result of reusing information, having more (and better) decision-making information earlier, and better early-phase analysis (Jernigan 2007). Previous studies suggest that the application of BIM has the following benefits (Gilligan, Kunz 2007;Azhar et al 2008Azhar et al , 2011Nisbet, Dinesen 2010;German 2012):…”

“…The cost of the BIM was $90,000, 0.2% of the project budget ($40,000 paid by owner), and the cost benefit was $600,000. Most of the savings were from the elimination of clashes, resulting in 1,143 saved hours (Azhar et al 2011). Furthermore, a web survey conducted by Autodesk (2008) suggests that BIM increases productivity after an average of three to four months, is more accessible than general CAD applications, enhances workflow after training, benefits owners, designers, and contractors, reduces the risk of design error, and enables communication and coordination among the project team.…”

Wearables and Wellness for the Young Elderly - Transforming Everyday Lives?

“…Furthermore, most research on information management in construction focuses on building information modelling (BIM) for new construction (A. Adriaanse, Voordijk, & Dewulf, 2010;Almarshad & Motawa, 2012;Azhar, 2011;Fox & Hietanen, 2007;Love, Matthews, Simpson, Hill, & Olatunji, 2014;Miettinen & Paavola, 2014;Motawa & Almarshad, 2013) Adriaanse et al, 2010;Almarshad & Motawa, 2012;Azhar, 2011;Deshpande, Azhar, & Amireddy, 2014;Fox & Hietanen, 2007;Love, Simpson, Hill, & Standing, 2013; Van der Vlist, Arno J, Vrolijk, & Dewulf, 2014). However, to fully benefit from BIM coordination of stakeholders and stakeholders' actions is required (Van der Vlist, Arno J et al, 2014).…”