Building information modelling implementation models in Thailand: Drivers, benefits, barriers and lessons learned

This study provides an overview of the typical building information modelling (BIM) implementation models in Thailand and a BIM implementation guide for contractors to avoid repeating common mistakes. Generally, BIM is used to produce a three-dimensional (3D) model, update technical drawings, detect clashes, quantify take-offs and create 3D visualisations. The study revealed that the main driver for contractors to use BIM is the request by Thai private developers to use BIM in more than 60% of large projects. In addition, the present study discovered that the main barriers to the implementation of BIM are the productivity of the projects, high initial investment, lack of knowledge and information available about BIM, lack of leadership from the government to promote the change, resistance to change of practice and the long adoption period. As a result, most contractors use BIM below its potential and receive only limited benefits. This study also recommends suggestions to minimise identified barriers.