Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the process of using computer software to create object-oriented, parametric models of buildings from which useful data can be retrieved. BIM can be used either collaboratively or under a traditional procurement structure, however collaboration is required to realise the full potential of the process.
Building Information Modelling represents an opportunity for main contractors in Auckland to counter the productivity losses that have been experienced in the New Zealand construction industry. Despite this, the adoption of BIM technologies by main contractors in Auckland appears to be much slower than in the United States or Europe where a large number of benefits have been documented as stemming from the use of the process. Further adoption of BIM in Auckland will be dictated both by real benefits and barriers and perceived benefits and barriers.
By conducting seven semi-structured interviews with medium to large commercial main contractors operating in Auckland this exploratory research has allowed a comparison between the benefits and barriers experienced by foreign contractors with the experiences and perceptions of medium to large main contractors operating in the Auckland construction industry towards BIM.
Although a number of the surveyed main contractors were already using BIM
technologies, the research has found that their level of engagement with the Building Information Modelling process has been relatively low. This has meant that the intensity of both the benefits and the barriers is lower than those documented in the predominantly foreign literature. All the surveyed contractors felt that the use of BIM technologies would grow within the Auckland market, but also that the drive towards this growth will not come from main contractors.
