Emerging managerial risks from the application of building information modelling

Abstract

Purpose Building information modelling (BIM) technology adoption is growing rapidly because of its perceived benefits. The purpose of this paper is to assess the perceptions of the users of BIM regarding the likelihood of managerial risks emergence that might influence the successful application of BIM, to facilitate the successful implementation of BIM in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach Emerging managerial BIM risks were extracted from the literature. The primary data were collected via a questionnaire survey. The analysis of the results was driven by univariate and inferential statistics (analysis of variance ) to assess the emergence of managerial risks. Findings The study confirmed the nine most likely managerial risks that might emerge from BIM adoption, which are lack of understanding of the expectations from BIM modelling, lack of experienced and skilled personnel, lack of clarity on integration of BIM with the current business practice, conflict because of dissimilar expectations from BIM, lack of collaborative work processes and standards, lack of understanding of BIM processes, lack of understanding modelling behaviours, lack of expertise within the project team, lack of expertise within the organizations and lack of criteria for BIM project implementation. Research limitations/implications The results will intensify the discussion about BIM risks, risk allocation and other aspects that are related to BIM methodology. The compiled list of managerial risks will help stakeholders in assessing financial implications that may result from BIM application. The list of risks could be used in pricing consultancy and construction services. More importantly, the list might be useful in developing an international standard for BIM risk management. The results showed that BIM success depends on the close collaboration, at the outset of the project, with contractors, consultants, designers and client. Originality/value Important managerial risks have been identified in the adoption of BIM. It renders a new understanding of the risks that might influence the successful application of BIM.