Building Information Modelling (BIM) Implementation in SMEs

Project Description

BIM describes tools, processes and technologies that are facilitated by digital documentation about a building, its performance, its planning, its construction and later its operation. The UK Government Construction Strategy mandated the use of BIM in publicly procured projects. This involves fully collaborative 3D BIM with all project and asset information, documentation and data being electronic. New cloud-based solutions support the industry by connecting data between specifications, models and manufacturer components and create a digital environment in which all team members can collaborate Digital delivery of projects and well-structured digital information can help address the challenges the construction industry face including sustainability. BIM management is required for value, cost and carbon improvement to meet the construction 2025 targets regarding 33% reduction in the construction cost and the whole life cost of built assets; 50% reduction in the duration of newbuild and refurbished projects; and 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment.

BIM awareness has increased in the large decade, particularly in the UK following the Government mandate. However, there is a clear divide between large and the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) firms, with the majority of the later having never used BIM (NBS Survey, 2020). A large number of empirical studies on BIM focused on leading large architectural practices working on significant complex mega projects. Yet, SMEs form the majority of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector and their perspective on BIM adoption and implementation has been widely ignored by policy makers and academic literature for a number of years. Recent research has highlighted the need for critical perspectives on BIM, taking into consideration different-sized firms. Questions arise regarding the use of BIM in less dominant yet influential SMEs. Empirical research is needed to shed light on the implementation and relevance of BIM in SMEs.

The aim of the project is to evaluate the firm context as a significant mediator for BIM adoption and implementation in SMEs; and propose a framework and recommendations to enable more effective BIM implementation in SMEs. Our aim is to use the KTP to enhance the practice by developing cutting edge methods that will put the company in a position to be ‘thought leaders’, build further opportunities for the practice to bring economic benefits, and engage with the industry as Leaders of BIM implementation in SMEs.