If BIM is the solution, what is the problem? A review of the benefits, challenges and key drivers in BIM implementation within the UK construction industry

Abstract

The interest in Building Information Modelling has increased within the construction industry over the past few years, both within the UK and globally. This interest was accelerated in 2011, following the UK Government's announcement that BIM would be mandated on all UK centrally procured public sector projects by 2016. BIM has been described as a game-changing Information Communication Technology and cultural process for the construction sector. This paper provides an overview of BIM. It also outlines the benefits, challenges and the key drivers in BIM implementation within the UK construction industry. Findings from this paper indicate that a shift towards collaborative working within the construction industry is crucial to ensure that BIM is implemented fully and for its benefits to be wholly realised.