Salari, M; Ghanbari, M; Skitmore, M and Alipour, M (2026) Developing a framework for selecting alternative materials for construction projects using BIM and the particle swarm optimization algorithm. Construction Innovation, 26(3), pp. 745-767. ISSN 1471-4175
Abstract
Purpose – This paper aims to create a comprehensive framework for selecting alternative materials in construction projects, integrating building information modeling (BIM) and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Materials comprise 60%–65% of the total project cost, and current methods require significant time and human resources. Design/methodology/approach – A prototype framework is developed that considers multiple criteria to optimize the material selection process, addressing the significant investment of time and resources required in current methods. The study uses surveys and interviews with construction professionals to collect primary data on alternative materials selection. Findings – The results show that integrating BIM and the PSO algorithm improves cost optimization and material selection outcomes. Originality/value – This comprehensive tool enhances decision-making capabilities and resource utilization, improving project outcomes and resource utilization. It offers a systematic approach to evaluating and selecting materials, making it a valuable resource for construction professionals.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | alternative materials; building information modeling; construction projects; cost efficiency; decision-making; particle swarm optimization; selection |
| Index terms: | optimization algorithm, construction project, human resource, methodology, decision-making, cost efficiency, interview, cost optimization, prototype, survey, project cost, construction professional, building information modelling, resource utilization, alternative material, project outcome |
| Subjects: | production management, research methods, algorithms, site logistics, materials science, project completion, information systems, decision analysis, professional development, economics, management, modelling and simulation, data collection methods |
| Topics: | Risk Management, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Site Management, Human Resources, Digital Applications, Research Practice, Information Management, Cost Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here