Case study of the collaborative design of an integrated BIM, IPD and lean university education program

The increased interest in BIM and the related technologies of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Lean Construction (Lean) highlights the need for enhanced education regarding rapidly evolving technologies within integrated construction-related disciplines. Because of the importance of strong collaboration and open communications to optimal outcomes, the education involved must incorporate soft skills emphasising open mindedness, ability to adapt, teamwork, leadership and communications. In response to the lack of any integrated courses of this nature, this exploratory case study involves the novel development of a university BIM-IPD-Lean Masters-level degree course. This was developed in four phases starting with an initial investigation by thorough contemporaneous review of the relevant education literature and in-depth research to determine the industry’s education requirements in full consultation with industry stakeholders, followed by a review of preliminary findings and obtaining approvals, major investigations and program structuring, final approvals and launch. 53 students graduated from the program, with every one becoming employed as a BIM professional within two months of graduation, with some employed during studies, and others immediately after graduation.