A Delphi-based approach to identifying critical criteria for BIM and immersive technology integration in building projects

Purpose The integration of Building Information Modelling and Immersive Technologies (BIM–ImT) can enhance design, communication and stakeholder collaboration. However, its implementation remains difficult because technical capabilities and social conditions must be aligned. The study applies socio-technical systems theory as a classification lens to distinguish technical and non-technical criteria influencing BIM–ImT integration in building projects. Design/methodology/approach A three-round Delphi method was used to identify, refine and validate critical BIM–ImT integration criteria. Eight experts from Australia and Vietnam participated in the process, with consensus defined as = 75% agreement and mean = 3.5 on a five-point Likert scale. Findings The study confirmed 53 crucial criteria for BIM–ImT implementation: 27 technical criteria related to software compatibility, data synchronisation, visualisation capability and hardware specifications, and 26 non-technical criteria focused on user training and acceptance, organisational support, communication effectiveness and regulatory compliance. Practical implications The findings provide a structured basis for planning BIM–ImT integration in building projects. Organisations should first establish foundational conditions, including interoperability, immersive performance, user training and collaborative workflows, before pursuing strategic investments. This helps practitioners assess readiness, sequence implementation and align decisions with technical and organisational dependencies. Originality/value The study advances BIM–ImT research by differentiating technical and non-technical conditions underpinning successful integration. It contributes a socio-technical systems-informed framework that prioritises BIM–ImT criteria as an interdependent configuration of technical infrastructure, organisational processes and human capabilities across mature and emerging construction markets.