Building information modeling-based process transformation to improve productivity in the Singapore construction industry

Productivity is suboptimal and building information modeling (BIM) implementation has been mandated in building projects in Singapore. However, compared with integrated project delivery, current industry delivery involves many non-value adding (NVA) activities. This study aims to develop a model to help project teams enhance BIM implementation and reduce NVA activities and wastes. Four BIM implementation readiness (BIMIR) statuses were defined, and a sub-model was proposed based on the NVA activities to assess the status. Through two questionnaire surveys and one case study, this study found that increasing BIMIR status reduced wastes and improved productivity, and identified critical hindrances and drivers to full BIM implementation which were interpreted by a proposed organizational change framework. Based on the above analysis, a comprehensive BIM-based process transformation model was developed to evaluate BIMIR and provide managerial strategies, with priorities, for teams of different BIMIR statuses to move towards full BIM implementation and improve productivity.