Investigation into the Barriers to the Application of Building Information Modelling in South East Nigeria.

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been globally recognized as a transformative approach in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, enhancing efficiency, collaboration, and project lifecycle management. The adoption and implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the construction industry have been slow in South East Nigeria. This study investigated the current status of BIM adoption and implementation in South East Nigeria, identified the challenges and barriers, and suggested strategies for improvement. A mixed-method approach involving surveys and interviews with construction professionals was used for this survey. The results show that while there is a growing awareness of BIM in South East Nigeria, its adoption and implementation are still limited. The main challenges and barriers identified include: lack of awareness and training, high implementation costs, insufficient skilled personnel, resistance to change, lack of institutional and regulatory insistence, lack of interest from construction professionals and inadequate government policies and support. The study recommends increased awareness and training programs, addition of BIM to the school curriculum, government support and regulation, financial incentives and public–private partnerships to promote BIM adoption and implementation in South East Nigeria.