Building Information Modeling in Construction Industry of Pakistan: Merits, Demerits and Barriers

Abstract In recent years, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is much popularized as construction design approach. It is very useful in providing the necessary information for any project before it is built. BIM implementation has demonstrated several merits; however practitioners have also reported some demerits and barriers which restrict the adoption of BIM in the construction industry. This study assessed the merits, demerits and barrier to implementation of BIM in the construction industry of Pakistan. Data collected form 42 practitioners involved in handling construction BIM based construction projects was analyzed statistically with average index method. The results showed that significant merits of the BIM as perceived by the practitioners are BIM helps in improving quality of Work; BIM is useful in controlling time and cost of the project; and helps in achieving client satisfaction. At the same time, the respondents mentioned BIM adds work for the designer and Interoperability as the significant demerits. Assessment regarding the barriers to BIM showed that top 3 common barriers are: lack of competent staff to operate the software; unawareness of the technology; and not ready to distort normal operational structure. These findings will help the practitioner to take necessary measurement for enhancing the implementation of BIM in the construction industry.