Sustainability-Oriented Capacity-Building Strategies for BIM-Enabled Construction Digitalization in South and Southeast Asian Developing Markets: A Modified Delphi Study
Abstract
This study examines the capacities required for sustainability-oriented, BIM-enabled construction digitalization in developing countries and proposes context-sensitive strategies for fragmented, SME-dominated construction sectors. By improving information coordination, reducing rework, supporting lifecycle information management, and widening SME participation, BIM capacity building is positioned as a pathway toward more resource-efficient and socially inclusive construction. A mixed-methods design was adopted. First, semi-structured interviews with nine BIM experts from Sri Lanka, India, and Malaysia were analyzed using a hybrid inductive–deductive thematic analysis to identify internal firm-level and external ecosystem-level capacity strategies. These findings were validated through a modified two-round Delphi study involving 39 practitioners and academics from Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Nepal, and Pakistan. Capacities and strategies were prioritized using the median and interquartile range, while strategy–capacity relationships were evaluated using percentage agreement and median linkage strength. The study identified 19 capacities and 25 strategies across internal and external dimensions. Internal strategies such as training, leadership support, role clarity, knowledge sharing, and BIM-enabled platforms were important and feasible through shared and flexible delivery mechanisms. External capacities, including standards, education, legal frameworks, procurement support, and incentives, were essential but less feasible without institutional coordination. Twenty strategy–capacity linkages achieved expert consensus, forming a practical roadmap that connects construction digitalization with the sustainable development goals of productivity, waste reduction, lifecycle value, and inclusive digital transformation in developing-country construction markets.