Drivers of Innovation Using BIM in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Firms: Fid-Bau Portal

Drivers of Innovation Using BIM in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Firms

Villena, Francisco / García-Segura, Tatiana / Pellicer, Eugenio

Architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) firms need to innovate in order to increase their business’ competitiveness. Many companies around the world are considering the possibility of implementing building information modelling (BIM) in their projects without knowing its actual benefits for the business. The current literature recognizes certain barriers to BIM implementation; therefore, considering these barriers, this work proposes a holistic model that allows managers to explain how BIM can play an important role for the success of the AEC companies. The pillars of the model are a collaborative culture and training of employees in order to break down technological barriers. This way, BIM can help AEC companies to innovate. This proposal takes into consideration the three phases of the infrastructure life-cycle. In the design phase, the model considers 3D shape, scheduling (4D), costs (5D), and sustainability (6D). In the construction phase, the model focuses on supply chain and quality management. During the operation phase, the model is related to the virtual management of maintenance activities. Drivers of innovation should consider several facets: marketing, technology, organization, processes, and products. This model aims to enlighten the positive effects of a good strategic management using BIM on innovation activities in each of the phases of the infrastructure life-cycle.