Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Enhancing the Applying of Knowledge Areas in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Industry

Abstract

Background The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is one of the sectors that contribute the most to the Palestinian economy. However, it now suffers from many problems, one of which is not adopting new innovations, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM recently achieved far reaching consideration in the AEC industry. Aim This research aimed to understand the contribution of BIM to the enhancement and application of Knowledge Areas (KAs) in the AEC industry in Palestine. Methods A quantitative survey was utilized in the pilot study. Thirty copies of the questionnaire were dispersed to respondents from the target group. The completed questionnaires were analyzed to test for statistical validity and reliability. After the pilot study, the questionnaire was validated and dispersed to the entire sample, comprising respondents from the target group who were selected by convenience sampling. Eighty copies of the questionnaire were dispersed, and 71 copies of the questionnaire were obtained from the respondents with a response rate of 88.8%. Results To draw meaningful results, the gathered information was analyzed by utilizing quantitative data analysis techniques, including the RII, Pearson correlation analysis, and Factor analysis. Conclusion The results illustrated the extent of enhancing the application of KAs in the AEC industry using BIM technology from the highest to lowest as follows: Cost Management (CM), Time Management (TM), Resource Management (REM), Procurement Management (PROM), Scope Management (SCM), Stakeholder Management (STM), Integration Management (IM), Quality Management (QM), Communication Management (COM), Risk Management (RM), and Safety Management (SM). As an example, BIM is effectively applied to each KA, and high efficiency is achieved when BIM is applied to TM by 4D modeling; to CM by 5D modeling; to REM by collaboration; to PROM by quantity takeoff; to SCM by element-base; to STM and IM by using integrated project delivery; to QM by using clash detection; to COM by centralized, structured data management, and information flow; to RM by constructability; and to SM by automated safety code checking.