Review of BIM literature in construction industry and transportation: meta-analysis

Purpose: Building information modeling (BIM) is a process of generating and managing building data during the building’s life cycle. To increase productivity in building design and construction, BIM uses three-dimensional (3D) real-time, dynamic building modeling software. Because of its versatile features, BIM use is on the rise and researchers are exploring its application in new disciplines. The purpose of this study is to map out how BIM is used in the construction industry, while identifying and highlighting the research gaps in the literature. Design/methodology/approach: To investigate the status quo of knowledge about BIM, the authors conducted a comprehensive literature review. They applied and extended a methodology for reviewing BIM-related publications through a four-dimensional meta-analysis system and its categories, which has been partially adapted previously. Findings: Majority of studies applying BIM for the construction phase of civil engineering projects were done within universities; none used BIM for the construction of intermediate railway stations. Practical implications: To increase the construction efficiency of intermediate railway stations, applying the BIM concept for generation and management of station data should be considered for future research. Originality/value: Furthermore, one of the main goals of this research paper is to explore the adoption of BIM in civil engineering construction projects, in particular the construction of intermediate railway stations.