Upgrading from the use of 2D CAD systems to BIM technologies in the construction industry: consequences and merits
Citation
Ogwueleka, Amaka Chinweude"Upgrading from the use of 2D CAD systems to BIM technologies in the construction industry: consequences and merits", International Journal of Engineering Trends and Technology (IJETT), V28(8),403-411 October 2015. ISSN:2231-5381. www.ijettjournal.org. published by seventh sense research group
Abstract
The highly competitive and tight market in the construction industry has compelled contracting firms to sort ways of improving work productivity and meeting project owners’ expectations. The use of building information modeling (BIM) is to improve the quality characteristics of construction outputs and create potential impact in the industry. Most developing countries are propagating for the use of BIM in project implementation but the existing procurement routes have restrained easy transformation to BIM technologies. The paper investigates the impact of upgrading from 2D CAD to BIM technologies in the Nigerian construction industry. The study adopts quantitative survey with a total number of 418 valid responses for the analysis. The findings reveal a high level of awareness of BIM technologies and a very slow level of BIM skills acquisition. The most critical challenges confronting the upgrade are identified as lack of clarity on legal and contractual issues, unsuitable framework for adopting BIM and inadequate knowledge/training. The most important benefits of BIM usage are identified as improved collaboration among parties, reduction in re-work and effective procurement strategy. The paper recommends the need to incorporate the knowledge of BIM in the university teaching syllabus for students and continuing education courses for practitioners. The government agencies, associations and researchers should also enforce the practice through standards and policies.
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Keywords
Building information modeling (BIM), 2 dimensional computer-aided design (2D CAD), Nigerian construction industry and architecture, engineering and construction (AEC).