Improving data quality in German office construction: a template-based framework for an SME-driven market

Germany’s construction industry lags behind other European countries in terms of digital transformation, particularly in building information modelling (BIM). This is attributed to several factors, including a large proportion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and limited investment resulting from insufficient data quality (DQ) in 3D deliverables. Against this backdrop, this study investigates barriers to DQ during information production, the affected DQ dimensions, and potential solutions. The aim is to contribute to the ongoing discussion on improving DQ in construction by offering practical solutions tailored to the constraints of SMEs. Specifically, this study focuses on the planning phase of office building projects in Germany. Data were collected through focus groups and individual interviews. Data analysis revealed several critical barriers that compromise DQ in the examined environment: incomplete information requirements, unresolved interfaces, limited participation in Closed BIM environments, inadequate implementation of the Exchange Information Requirements, inconsistent 3D deliverables, insufficient data validation expertise, and non-compliance with schedules and model structures. The most affected DQ dimensions are completeness, reliability, and usability. Among the potential solutions identified, object templates emerged as a practical approach to improving these critical dimensions. Preliminary stakeholder feedback was collected to explore the suitability of object templates for improving DQ in 3D deliverables. The proposed approach centres on four key principles: purpose-driven design, regional adaptability, type-level modularity, and integration with proprietary formats. This study makes four distinct contributions to the field of DQ improvement in the examined context. First, it empirically identifies SME-relevant DQ barriers, complementing existing research with insights into their underlying mechanisms and interdependencies. Second, it conceptually reframes DQ improvement as a preventive, process-based challenge, shifting the focus from tools to workflows and collaboration. Third, it delivers a methodological and practical contribution through an ISO 19650-2-integrated workflow for object template implementation, embedding preventive DQ measures into standardised processes to ensure feasibility for SMEs. Finally, it develops four key principles for template development, which collectively enable immediate adoption without requiring full BIM maturity. Together, these contributions bridge the gap between high-level BIM standards and the practical realities of SMEs, offering actionable, resource-efficient solutions.