Perceived barriers to implementing building information modeling in Iranian Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

a Delphi survey of construction experts

authored by: Hadi Sarvari, Parsa Asaadsamani, Timothy O. Olawumi, Daniel W.M. Chan, Amirreza Rashidi, Michael Beer
Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) is a disruptive information technology tool in the construction sector. Although this technology had a significant impact on the manufacturing industries, it, like any other technology, encountered several challenges when applied to the construction sector. Conversely, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies often face significant impediments when using innovative technologies. Thus, this paper seeks to determine and investigate the perceived barriers to applying BIM in construction SMEs based in Iran. Three rounds of Delphi surveys were carried out with 15 BIM experts engaged in construction SMEs to identify the key barriers to BIM implementation in SMEs. An empirical survey questionnaire comprising these identified barriers was subsequently designed and disseminated to the invited experts. Altogether, 56 valid survey responses were received and analyzed. The study’s findings revealed SMEs management’s hesitancy to adopt BIM, stakeholders’ reluctance to change their established methods, and a lack of technical understanding as the critical impediments to BIM adoption in construction SMEs. Also, the study identified four barrier dimensions–technology, legal, management, and financial. These BIM implementation barrier dimensions can be employed to better allocate resources and financing for BIM deployment and construction innovation in SMEs. The study will assist major project stakeholders and SMEs make better-informed BIM adoption decisions, particularly in developing nations like Iran.
Organisation(s): Institute for Risk and Reliability
External Organisation(s): Birmingham City University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Islamic Azad University
Napier University
University of Liverpool
Type: Article
Journal: Architectural Engineering and Design Management
ISSN: 1745-2007
Publication date: 24.03.2024
Publication status: E-pub ahead of print
Peer reviewed: Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Architecture, Building and Construction, Business, Management and Accounting(all)
Electronic version(s): https://doi.org/10.1080/17452007.2024.2329687 (Access: Closed)