BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM): ADVANTAGES, RISKS AND APPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH ITS ADOPTION IN ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION (AEC) INDUSTRY OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has gained attention in the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. BIM envisage the use of virtual ndimensional (n-D) models generated in computers to simulate the design, construction, planning and operation of a facility. It allows the engineers, architects and constructors to visualize what is to be built in virtual environment and to identify potential conflicts in design, construction or operational of the facility. Along-with many advantages there are certain barriers associated with BIM adoption which hinders the implementation of BIM in AEC industry. This research aims to rank the advantages, barriers and potential fields of application of BIM in AEC industry of Pakistan. This research quantifies the difference in perception of AEC professionals regarding the advantages, risks and potential applications of BIM. Furthermore, the research will bench mark the current state of BIM adoption and also predicts the future of BIM in Pakistan. The study is undertaken via a questionnaire based survey comprising of 7 advantages, 12 barriers and 12 application of BIM. A pilot study was conducted that involved three local architects, two academia professionals, one contractor and one engineering consultant to establish the adequacy and appropriateness of the identified advantages, risks and potential applications. The questionnaire was modified based on the results of the pilot study and an open ended question requiring suggestions for making BIM popular in Pakistan was incorporated. Data collected from 102 respondents, (that includes architects, engineering consultants, contractors, sub contractors / suppliers, research and development professionals) form 50 organizations varying from small to very large in size and working across the Pakistan and is analyzed using SPSS.