Analyzing the added value of common data environments for organizational and project performance of BIM-based projects

Abstract

Using common data environments (CDEs) adds value to BIM-based construction projects' organizational and project performance. However, CDEs are used very limitedly in the construction industry. One of the reasons for the limited implementation of CDEs can be associated with the need for construction companies' knowledge about the positive impacts of CDEs on performance management. A well-structured CDE can provide countless benefits and promote long-term improvements in construction projects and organizations, increasing their business success. Despite the acknowledged importance of CDEs, research needs to investigate the impacts of CDEs on project and organizational performance considering the construction KPIs. This study aims to reveal (1) how the CDEs facilitate performance measurement in the construction phase of BIM-based projects and (2) how the CDEs positively affect the project and organizational performance in the construction phase of BIM-based projects. This scope uses seven construction KPIs: time, cost, quality, safety, productivity, organizational sustainability, and client satisfaction. This study conducts a systematic literature review, semi-structured interviews with five subject-matter experts, and the two-rounded Delphi method to fulfill the research objective. The results show that implementing the CDEs in the construction phase of BIM-based projects positively affects productivity, quality, and time KPIs, followed by organizational sustainability, cost, client satisfaction, and safety, respectively. This research contributes to collating and uncovering the added value of CDEs for the organizational and performance management of BIM-based projects. Accordingly, this study would increase the awareness of construction companies about ‘how they can benefit from the data located in the CDEs from project management through knowledge management in the best way'.