Abstract:
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a new technology constantly under development and being explored in new dimensions globally. BIM provides complete information about a project to all stakeholders throughout project lifecycle with simultaneous updates and modifications incurred. The switch from Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) to virtual modeling and eventually towards sustainable construction environment through use of BIM software tools is evident globally. Therefore, it was much needed to have an assessment of BIM on construction project lifecycle in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry of Pakistan. This research paper had two core objectives: one was to assess the current state of awareness regarding BIM among the users and potential users through questionnaire survey; and second was to practically evaluate the implementation of various BIM software tools on a case study project. Through the survey, challenges faced and benefits realized by BIM users were evaluated along with awareness level, thus indicating the critical areas for development regarding BIM in AEC industry of Pakistan and its adoption. The practical implementation of various BIM software tools was carried out on a construction project in different stages, starting from 3D Modeling, developing architectural and structural models, performing clash detection and energy analysis, integrating 4D costing and 5D scheduling in order to identify the barriers and their solutions related to BIM implementation. The study concludes: BIM utilization is limited in the AEC Industry of Pakistan at present and there is still reluctance among the industry regarding the outcomes of switching to the new paradigm; the industry needs clear communication of BIM features and its application; only architects have partially realized the benefits and potential challenges of BIM; practical implementation of BIM modeling is limited owing to software & hardware issues, lack of experienced BIM-trained professionals and training availability in the market. It is recommended that the extensive assessment of transition to BIM should be carried out as a collaborative endeavour between industry & academia to address the issues regarding the adoption of BIM; moreover it is needed to evaluate all the available software solutions, and a well-defined workflow and strategy should be prepared as a solution to the barriers faced by the industry in BIM adoption.