Examining the effect of interoperability factors on building information modelling (BIM) adoption in Malaysia
ISSN: 1471-4175
Article publication date: 13 October 2022
Issue publication date: 13 February 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Building information modelling (BIM) has transformed the traditional practices of the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. BIM creates a collaborative digital representation of built environment data. Competitive advantage can be achieved with collaborative project delivery and rich information modelling. Despite the abundant benefits, BIM’s adoption in the AEC is susceptible to confrontation. A substantial impediment to BIM adoption often cited is data interoperability. Other facets of interoperability got limited attention. Other academic areas, including information systems, discuss the interoperability construct ahead of data interoperability. These interoperability factors have yet to be surveyed in the AEC industry. This study aims to investigate the effect of interoperability factors on BIM adoption and develop a comprehensive BIM adoption model.
Design/methodology/approach
The theoretical foundations of the proposed model are based on the European interoperability framework (EIF) and technology, organization, environment framework (TOE). Quantitative data collection from construction firms is gathered. The model has been thoroughly examined and validated using partial least squares structural equation modelling in SmartPLS software.
Findings
The study’s findings indicate that relative advantage, top management support, government support, organizational readiness and regulation support are determinants of BIM adoption. Financial constraints, complexity, lack of technical interoperability, semantic interoperability, organizational interoperability and uncertainty are barriers to BIM adoption. However, compatibility, competitive pressure and legal interoperability do not affect BIM adoption.
Practical implications
Finally, this study provides recommendations containing the essential technological, organizational, environmental and interoperability factors that AEC stakeholders can address to enhance BIM adoption.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first studies to combine TOE and EIF in a single research model. This research provides empirical evidence for using the proposed model as a guide to promoting BIM adoption. As a result, the highlighted determinants can assist organizations in developing and executing successful policies that support BIM adoption in the AEC industry.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors want to show their appreciation and thank the respondents who provided feedback on the questionnaire. Further, the authors thank the SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia, for funding this research.
Data availability statement: Some or all data, models or codes that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Citation
Ahmed, Y.A., Shehzad, H.M.F., Khurshid, M.M., Abbas Hassan, O.H., Abdalla, S.A. and Alrefai, N. (2024), "Examining the effect of interoperability factors on building information modelling (BIM) adoption in Malaysia", Construction Innovation, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 606-642. https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-12-2021-0245
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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