Assessing the performance of the building information modeling (BIM) implementation process within a small specialty contracting enterprise

Abstract

The current shift to building information modeling (BIM) enabled project delivery in the construction industry is promising important benefits. For small and micro businesses, which represent 99.0% of the employers in the Canadian construction industry, adopting these trends could significantly impact their bottom line. However, this often represents considerable cost and risk. Assessing the performance of BIM implementation therefore becomes an important part of the process, namely in ensuring that it is on track and progressing as required. This article presents the findings from a case study research project conducted over a 2 year period within a small mechanical contracting firm. The objective of this research project was to develop an evolutionary approach, supported by specific measures, to assess the performance of the BIM implementation process within a specialty contracting small enterprise. The findings suggest that BIM has had a positive impact over time on predictability for indicators such as total project cost and labor cost. On the other hand, project scope and quality were not shown to be influenced by BIM in the projects studied. The variability uncovered in the findings reinforces the central tenant of BIM as an enabler for collaboration. Indeed, most of the projects studied were performed in a lonely manner and thus the measured impact of BIM on project delivery was limited, even if it was perceived as very beneficial. Lastly, the article highlights the need for a parallel reconfiguration of practice: performance assessment and BIM implementation need to be developed conjointly to serve one another.