A quality function deployment (QFD) framework for prioritising BIM-Lean synergies: a design science study

Purpose Building information modelling (BIM) and Lean construction (Lean) have been known to work well together; however, their practical integration is often fragmented. Current literature largely maps these interactions as evident/inevident connections, often failing to capture their relative importance. This study addresses this limitation by developing the BIM-Lean Relationship Assessment Methodology (BLRAM), a tool designed not only to identify these relationships but also to measure and prioritise their strength for better decision-making. Design/methodology/approach We adopted a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, using quality function deployment (QFD) to translate high-level Lean goals, representing the “Voice of the Customer” into measurable BIM functions. The utility of the artefact was demonstrated through two contrasting real-world scenarios (Construction Logistics vs Design Efficiency) and validated through semi-structured interviews with 21 subject-matter experts. The resulting data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, with a structured scoring rubric introduced to mitigate expert subjectivity. Findings The analysis challenges the assumption of a balanced relationship. Although the interaction is bidirectional, it is functionally asymmetric, where BIM functions act as strong accelerators of Lean goals, whereas the reverse influence is often weaker. The artefact demonstrated this by prioritising high-impact functions, such as “Automated Material Logs” (Score: 576.84), over “Conflict Analysis” (Score: 430.65) for Just-in-Time delivery. Expert feedback largely validated the tool's logic (18 of 21 agreement), though it also highlighted the importance of using the scoring rubric to ensure consistency. Originality/value This research offers the first known application of QFD to the BIM-Lean interface, shifting the focus from descriptive mapping to prescriptive prioritisation. By quantifying the level of influence, the BLRAM provides practitioners with a mechanism to avoid digital waste, thereby enabling them to invest in the specific BIM functions that drive actual Lean value, rather than relying on intuition or ad-hoc adoption.