LEVERAGING BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM) FOR EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT IN THE USA

Abstract

The United States construction sector is plagued by persistent inefficiencies, including budget blowouts, delayed timelines, and inadequate project governance. However, the advent of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized the industry by enhancing the accuracy, synergy, and strategic decision-making processes i construction management. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of BIM's applications in the U.S. construction industry, with a specific focus on its impact on optimizing construction management practices. The review elucidates the distinct ways in which BIM contributes to project success, including its capacity to rationalize workflows, minimize errors, and facilitate seamless collaboration among stakeholders in real-time. Through an exhaustive examination of existing literature, this paper highlights BIM's specialized functions that are particularly beneficial for construction management in the U.S., such as conflict detection, 4D scheduling, and cost estimation. The paper also examines case studies that demonstrate the successful integration of BIM in large-scale projects across the country, showcasing tangible improvements in project outcomes, including reduced project timelines and enhanced cost efficiency. Furthermore, the paper explores the challenges associated with BIM adoption in the U.S., including the need for skilled personnel, the integration of BIM with existing project management systems, and the legal and contractual implications of BIM-based collaboration. These challenges are discussed alongside strategies for overcoming them, emphasizing the importance of training, standardization, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The findings of this review suggest that the widespread adoption of BIM in the U.S. construction industry holds significant promise for enhancing project management efficiency, improving stakeholder communication, and ultimately contributing to more successful project outcomes. The paper concludes by proposing best practices for BIM implementation in construction management, aiming to guide industry professionals in leveraging this technology to its fullest potential.