Understanding the Relation between BIM Application Behavior and Sustainable Construction: A Case Study in China

Abstract

Building information modeling (BIM) is based on 3D models for collaborative management of information, which leads the innovative development of information transformation in the construction industry. In recent years, sustainable construction has become a hot topic in construction research. With the concept of sustainable development, this type of construction advocates for the sustainable optimization of construction models and processes. A person’s good behavior can bring enormous potential, which is critical for the promotion of new technology in new areas. Nowadays, the integration of BIM technology and sustainable construction has increasingly attracted attention in the industry of construction. But many issues and gaps still exist when using them. The aim of this study is to investigate the intrinsic relationship between BIM application and sustainable construction from the perspective of user application behavior, and to reveal the key influential factors of BIM application behavior in order to improve the application efficiency of BIM in sustainable construction. Specifically, the present study builds a theoretical model by integrating the theory of planned behavior and BIM application. Based on a questionnaire survey of 353 BIM users, we conducted an empirical analysis using the structural equation model method. The results showed that the perceived usefulness and ease of use of BIM technology are the key influential factors in behavior attitude. BIM behavior intention, actual behavior, and behavior attitude have a positive effect on sustainable construction. Ultimately, practical support is provided for the effective integration of BIM with sustainable construction in China.