This study investigates the potential for automation-ready Building Information Modelling (BIM) adoption within construction small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on the intersection of digital readiness, information management, and market dynamics. Drawing on a structured desk-based literature review and secondary analysis of market-research data, the research adopts an exploratory mixed-method approach to bridge theoretical insights with real-world industry conditions. The findings highlight persistent barriers to BIM adoption in SMEs, including financial constraints, limited technical expertise, interoperability challenges, and organisational resistance to change. The study introduces a conceptual framework for automation readiness based on four interrelated dimensions: digital readiness, organisational capability, information-management maturity, and market/client pressure. Based on this framework, SMEs are positioned along a digital transformation continuum, from cautious adopters to advanced users. The paper argues that BIM should evolve from a modelling-centric tool into an automation-ready information platform aligned with standards such as ISO 19650. The findings provide practical and strategic implications for developing modular, affordable BIM solutions tailored to SME conditions. This work contributes to the growing discourse on digital construction and offers a foundation for future empirical research on automation readiness and BIM-enabled transformation.
Shahin Khalilian (Sun,) studied this question.