EFFECTS OF BIM ADOPTION BY AEC (ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION) CONSULTANTS IN EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

Building information modelling (BIM) emerges as a crucial information technology (IT) solution to address the construction issues, increasing construction productivity and project success (Azhar, 2011). The aim of this research is to investigate the adoption of BIM by AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) consultants in Edo State with a view to facilitating the uptake of BIM in the Edo State construction industry. Four objectives of the study were formulated: determine the extent of adoption of BIM by AEC consultants in Edo State, assess drivers of BIM adoption by AEC consultants in Edo State, assess barriers to BIM adoption by AEC consultants in Edo State, and examine benefits of BIM adoption by AEC consultants in Edo State. A total sample of 269 was drawn from a population of 827 AEC Consultants in Edo State. Data was collected using structured questionnaire administered physically where 72% (193 responses) response rate was recorded. The data collected was then analysed based on the research objectives. MIS was used to rank the responses received while Factor analysis was used to group the barriers to adoption of BIM. Results and findings indicate a highly positive outlook regarding BIM adoption within the AEC consulting sector in Edo State. Respondents strongly agree that BIM has a bright future in their firms and that clients are receptive to BIM. Also, the study found that Efficiency improvement in terms of cost and time were the primary driver of BIM adoption, with AEC consultants recognizing BIM's potential to streamline project execution processes. Moreso, it was found that the adoption of BIM faces notable barriers in Edo State. The high cost of BIM software and hardware, resistance to change, and concerns about the initial investment are the top barriers. The benefits of BIM adoption are significant, with AEC consultants experiencing more efficient decisionmaking and risk analysis. BIM has also improved client satisfaction and reduced errors and rework, leading to better cost estimation and budget control. From the findings of this study, it was concluded that Knowledge of industry’s policies and laws, Experience, Health and safety, technical expertise and management capability will play vital roles in the selecting competent construction contractors. The study therefore recommends that the need for addressing both financial and technical hurdles while fostering a climate of change and innovation in the AEC consulting sector in Edo state.