A conceptual framework of building information modelling capabilities: An infrastructure owner perspective

The adoption and implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is seen as the foundation of digital transformation of the architecture, engineering, construction industry. Project parties require distinct organisational capabilities to deliver BIM value in projects. While several studies have focused on supplier-side BIM capabilities for implementation, BIM-related capabilities from an owner organisation perspective have received limited attention. Studies about BIM use in major infrastructure projects indicate the necessity of strong owner organisations with BIM capabilities. This study proposes a conceptual framework of owner BIM capabilities across the whole project life cycle in the context of infrastructure. Drawing on the three domains of project organising and the capability-based view, we conceptualise owner BIM capabilities (OBCs) and explore the BIM activities between different domains and across project stages. Eight sets of OBCs are proposed based on literature review, covering strategic, administrative, procurement, coordinative, process, technical, second-order dynamic, and operation and maintenance. The framework of OBCs contributes a granular understanding of owner-side capabilities in infrastructure projects and provides theoretical insights for infrastructure owner organisations to promote BIM implementation on their projects.