Evaluation of the challenges in using building information modelling to improve client’s requirements delivery

The growing recognition that clients are at the driving force in the construction industry has led to repeated calls for the construction industry to deliver better value-for-money for its clients. These calls are in response to the criticisms of the industry by clients, who argue that industry supply chains do not always meet their requirements. While the problem can be attributed to many factors, such as poor-quality materials, fragmented nature of the industry and complex nature of the projects, which contribute to the overall clients' satisfaction, the understanding of client requirements are critical for the overall project success. In this regard, it is important that the supply chains should spend time to understand their clients' needs at the early stage of the project. The supply chains have used conventional tools, methodology or even theoretical discussion to explore the best solutions to create better dynamics and experience among team members and client. However, there are many proponents in this area who believe that the conventional approaches are inadequate and need to be more innovative. Building information modelling (BIM) has been identified by these proponents as the methodology to improve the briefing process and also aim to create added value within the supply chain (SC). The aim of the current study is to evaluate the challenges in using BIM during briefing, design and construction stages. The study will adopt a qualitative approach and will use semi-structured interviews to gather data from 17 industry practitioners, moving from Level 1 to level 2 BIM with varying level of BIM skills and knowledge across three projects at different stages. It is anticipated that BIM has the potential increase understanding and provide positive feedback to the client and the end-users better visualisation of alternative solutions which is crucial for the efficient iterative design process.