Examining the effect of interoperability factors on building information modelling (BIM) adoption in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose Building information modelling (BIM) has transformed the traditional practices of the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. BIM creates a collaborative digital representation of built environment data. Competitive advantage can be achieved with collaborative project delivery and rich information modelling. Despite the abundant benefits, BIM’s adoption in the AEC is susceptible to confrontation. A substantial impediment to BIM adoption often cited is data interoperability. Other facets of interoperability got limited attention. Other academic areas, including information systems, discuss the interoperability construct ahead of data interoperability. These interoperability factors have yet to be surveyed in the AEC industry. This study aims to investigate the effect of interoperability factors on BIM adoption and develop a comprehensive BIM adoption model. Design/methodology/approach The theoretical foundations of the proposed model are based on the European interoperability framework (EIF) and technology, organization, environment framework (TOE). Quantitative data collection from construction firms is gathered. The model has been thoroughly examined and validated using partial least squares structural equation modelling in SmartPLS software. Findings The study’s findings indicate that relative advantage, top management support, government support, organizational readiness and regulation support are determinants of BIM adoption. Financial constraints, complexity, lack of technical interoperability, semantic interoperability, organizational interoperability and uncertainty are barriers to BIM adoption. However, compatibility, competitive pressure and legal interoperability do not affect BIM adoption. Practical implications Finally, this study provides recommendations containing the essential technological, organizational, environmental and interoperability factors that AEC stakeholders can address to enhance BIM adoption. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first studies to combine TOE and EIF in a single research model. This research provides empirical evidence for using the proposed model as a guide to promoting BIM adoption. As a result, the highlighted determinants can assist organizations in developing and executing successful policies that support BIM adoption in the AEC industry.

Moderator Effects of Owner-Manager Knowledge on The Intention to Adopt Islamic Financing Facilities in Malaysia

“…Regarding the influence of compatibility, this study found that compatibility was not a significant influencing factor on the intention to adopt IFF among halal-certified companies in Malaysia. The findings are consistent with several studies that found an insignificant role of compatibility in adoption (e.g., Skafi et al, 2020;Ahmed et al, 2022;Parvand & Rasiah, 2022). One possible explanation could be that the owner-managers of halal-certified companies are less concerned about how IFF align with their practices.…”

“…Top management support is a key factor that influences the innovation adoption in organisations. Wahab et al (2022) discovered that top management support positively influences the adoption of automated material handling equipment, while Ahmed et al (2022) indicated that top management shows its support and provides the necessary resources for the adoption of building information modelling. Therefore, the adoption intention of IFF relies mostly on top management support.…”

Collaborative technologies and project performance in manufacturing in the industry 4.0 environment: Mediating effect of individual, organizational, sociotechnical factors

“…This leads to the normalization of attitudes of employees in an organization toward new technologies, work routines, and practices (Radhakrishnan et al, 2022). Therefore, when people start collecting information, dissipating and sharing about CT among their colleagues, and finding common ground with a predisposition for such applications, it influences organizational outcomes (Ahmed et al, 2022). Such individual perceptions and attitudes developed by individuals toward CT drive organizational capabilities that eventually become a type of intangible resource (Razzak, 2023; Uddin et al, 2023).…”

“…Therefore, when organizations deploy CT, it acts as an enabler that promotes harmony and collaboration among project members. Deployment of CT is likely to enhance the interactions between project workers and external entities, thus influencing factors related to individuals, organizations, and STF (Ahmed et al, 2022). Furthermore, based on the premise of RDT, when project workers deploy CT in their work, it will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of interactions between them and their environment, thus leading to the development of positive effects on IF, OF, and STF.…”

Structural Equation Modeling in Technology Adoption and Use in the Construction Industry: A Scientometric Analysis and Qualitative Review

“…Compared to other methods, SEM is a useful technique for assessing complex theoretical relationships among multiple variables [13], widely applied in the field of construction for technology adoption. Ahmed et al use partial least squares (PLS)-SEM in analyzing questionnaires distributed to 1200 construction companies to study the impact of interoperability-related factors, determinants, and barriers in adopting BIM technology in Malaysia's construction industry [14]. PLS-SEM is used by Al-Hashmy et al to investigate the impact of a computerized accounting information system (CAIS) on construction firm performance, finding that most of it is mediated by innovation [15].…”