Implementation of building information modelling within construction SMEs

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is promoted as a requisite to improve construction project performance. In the UK, the Government has set the construction industry targets to attain with timescales, such as achieving the BIM Level 2 for all government projects by the year 2016. In terms of the UK construction sector, over 86% of employees work within small and medium sized enterprises (SME), and are responsible for 75% of the turnover. However, BIM implementation within the SME sector is considerably low. As such, SMEs may be left behind in the BIM journey, thereby hindering the policy level targets. This research was aimed at identifying the key barriers to the implementation of BIM within the construction SMEs in the UK. The data were collected through a literature review, questionnaire survey and four semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal lack of investment and commitment to resource to skill development in relation to BIM, and the absence of incentives within the government procurement processes as significant among the several barriers to the implementation of BIM within the UK construction SMEs. Despite the UK government’s intention that at least 25% of all central government contracts should be awarded to SME businesses by 2015, many construction SME firms are finding it difficult to win public sector work. Therefore, the research findings highlight implications for both policy and practice. For the macro level policy makers, the non-consideration of the diversity and the market dynamics the construction industry may lead to unrealistic policy level targets being developed. For the construction industry and its firms, it is high time to reflect on their current practices and the level of commitment to resource skill development and continuous improvement.