BIM adoption in local-based architecture and engineering SMEs : Developing an application-based method to pinpoint objective BIM uses and align them with business standards to facilitate the execution of BIM projects in prospective architecture and engineering SMEs

1.1. General research introductionThe research is going to introduce several highlighted main topics that are included in this dissertation. The main topics refer to the later on developed chaptersfor the associated thesis points. This subchapter will provide a comprehensive overview of the included main topics, and later on it will be followed by a specific research introduction that intends to represent arranged specialized insight for the conducted study. Building information modeling:Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the method of using digital or virtual model to plan, design, construct, and/or operate building projects [1], by using defined elements that are interactively linked to generate Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operation (AECO) information [2]. Meaning that BIM is part of the digitization process in the building industry, and it is a digital-based way that intends to increase quality and decrease errors despite the lack of direct measurements regarding the true implementation of BIM processes [3]. Collaboration between different disciplines within the building industry is essential to deliver or operate built assets, this collaboration was depending on the exchange of Two-Dimensional (2D) information between different disciplines, until the widespread implementation of the revolutionary Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Three-Dimensional (3D) tools, and finally followed by the introduction of BIM processes to replace the traditional methods for information generation and exchange among different project representatives [4]. The potential of BIM arises by its development from intradiscipline to multi-discipline cooperation tool, assisting the tremendous exchange of building data between different project representatives to support the design and construction of projects, and during the operation of the built asset as a life-cycle support tool to assist the operations of the facility during its life span [4], [5].Based on the National Building Specification (NBS) there are several BIM levels that classify businesses based on their BIM compliancy, including Level 0, 1, 2, and 3 BIM [6]. Level 0 BIM means no collaboration, where 2D CAD drafting is only utilized, the output and distribution is via paper and electronic prints. Level 1 BIM includes a mixture of 3D CAD for concept work, and 2D for drafting of permits, approval documentation, and production information. Level 2 BIM is distinguished by collaborative workflow, which requires an information exchange process which is specific to that project and coordinated between various disciplines and project participants. Any CAD software to be implemented in the project should be capable of exporting to one of the industry’s common file formats, e.g., Industry Foundation Class (IFC) and Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie). Finally, Level 3 BIM has not yet been fully defined, but the future vision for this level includes the following key measures: the creation of a new set of “Open Data” standards to facilitate sharing information across the entire industry, establishment of new contractual framework for projects which have been procured with BIM, creation of cooperative cultural environment, training the public sector client in the use of BIM techniques, and driving domestic/international growth in technology and construction [7]. The AECO firms in the building industry:The AECO industry faces several difficulties and opportunities as it adapts to the continuously changing market trends and technological advancements. As one of the largest industries in the world, accounting for 13% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the industry witnesses a steady increase in demand for innovative building materials, construction techniques, and digital technologies (e.g., BIM, cloud-based collaboration, and requirement-management tools). On the other hand, the industry grapples with several issues and obstacles that vary from one market to another, including lack of collaboration, poor communication, shorta e of skilled labor, rising material costs, increased regulatory requirements, etc. [8].The AECO firms stand for firms that run the building industry including architectural planning/design, structural/engineering, construction, and operation firms, BIM plays an essential role in the workflow of large AECO businesses, and it is impact is not limited to managers, architects, and engineers, it goes further beyond among clients, investors, contractors, facility managers, professionals, and craft workers, this can be imagined by thinking about the federated BIM model as a collection of different independent models, from which each model refers to a certain stakeholder [9]. However, many built projects are mostly carried out by sub-contracted smaller firms or Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which may also carry out parts of large size projects, so there are frequent calls for smaller firms and SMEs to implement BIM solutions in different sized projects considering affordability, availability, and practicality, since the multidisciplinary nature of the sector applies to smaller and larger markets [10]. In the building industry, SMEs are key components of the industry and considered fundamental to national and international economies. Although the building industry market is divided into two different sections, the first is dominated by global corporations with giant budgets and megaprojects, and the second includes smaller-sized firms that usually work on domestic projects in local regions. Still, smaller-sized firms do not reflect smaller significancy in the market, a published report by UK’s Federation for Small Businesses demonstrates that SMEs account for three-fifths of employment and around half the turnover of the private sector, from which the construction industry in particular accounts for 16% of all SMEs that belong to this sector [11]. SMEs are the real driving force in the building industry market, since they occupy the majority of the lower base levels of the industry’s size-based pyramid structure, meaning that the stability and development of SMEs will be the driving force for the stability and enhancement of large building industry firms, so that SMEs are the key for the future of the building industry sector including AECO firms [12]. In UK, nearly the fifth of all SMEs play a role in the building industry, hence SMEs are recognized by many professionals as a crucial part of the industry and driving force within it, since SMEs are the source for specialized skills, know-how, technological advancements, and essential share of the workforce required to deliver the built projects [13].