Building information modelling and construction project team integration: a case of theory and practice

Construction project teams include multiple designers, constructors, and the client, where team selection is predominantly priced-based. The consequent supply networks are frequently fragmented and litigious. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an electronic, integrative technology that theoretically overcomes such problems since team member compatibility becomes a critical selection criterion. This case study illustrates a gap between theory and practice, suggesting industry practitioners adopt a pragmatic approach to their expectations from BIM investments, tailored to their particular position in the supply chain and the business/ICT capabilities of their immediate trading partners. In practice this may be more feasible for peripheral participants in construction projects, who have self-contained supply chains independent of the project itself.