Can lean principles assist to reduce BIM implementation costs? Acontemporary application of lean principles to the Sri Lankan construction industry

Abstract

Purpose – Building informationmodelling (BIM) claims to be spearheading the modern technological revolution in the global construction industry. While scholars have emphasised the cruciality of BIM, associated costs have been identified as one of themajor barriers to successful BIMimplementation, as is the case in Sri Lanka. Besides, lean principles (LPs) are known for increasing efficiency, quality and eliminating waste, thereby reducing overall costs. Hence, this research aims at addressing the BIMimplementation barrier associated with costs by applying suitable LP, enhancing overall value by minimising value-insignificant activities. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopted a qualitative research approach. 10 experts with expertise in both BIM and LP were targeted for the primary data collection through semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analysed using manual content analysis. Findings – Research findings discovered the cost centres that can be applied to the LPs and the effective LPs that can be applied with the cost centres of BIM implementation. The theoretical implication of the study is to provide insights into a potential application of LP for BIM cost centres, whereas practical consequences include the identification ofLP’s potential tominimise BIMcost centres, ergo, achieving a successful BIMimplementation. Originality/value – This study will be the first of its kind in the Sri Lankan construction industry, intending to apply LPwithBIM implementation cost centres to achieve a successful implementation.This research also has paved the way forward for further research on the application of both the BIM and LP concepts for similar construction industries in developing countries across the world and in addressing other BIM implementation barriers.