Optimising the implementation of BIM: A 2-stage stochastic programming approach

A challenge faced by contractors attempting to implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) is deciding on the functions that BIM needs to be implemented for, along with the associated level of development (LOD). This study proposes a 2-stage stochastic optimisation model for planning the BIM implementation at the strategic level for organisations. The proposed approach accounts for learning curve effects associated with acquiring BIM skills and the uncertain demand for BIM usage due to other emerging technologies. The results indicated that BIM implementation can reduce the technology costs by up to 200%, in contrast to not implementing BIM; however, organisations are likely to experience a 5% cost increment at the beginning until 50 learning cycles. The proposed method is designed to assist decision-makers on whether BIM should be implemented at their firms, and if so, what functions to implement and what LOD to associate with developed models.