Authors:
Adnan Ali Enshassi; Lina Ahmed Abu Hamra; Suhair Alkilani;
Abstract:
The objective of this study is to identify and evaluate the potential benefits of using BIM in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry in Gaza Strip, Palestine. A questionnaire survey was utilized and distributed to 270 construction professionals. Data were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The results revealed the forming of four components (i.e., four factor structures) of BIM benefits; those are: (i) life cycle cost control and environmental issues, (ii) effective construction process, (iii) design and quality
improvement and (iv) decision-making support. The results show that the most important individual BIM benefits among the main four components are: improving management and operation of buildings, controlling the whole life cycle cost, reducing change orders, increasing coordination between contract parties, improving
communication, improving safety, improving quality and improving decision-making process. Professionals and engineers are urged to utilize BIM in designing and constructing buildings and infrastructure projects in the Gaza Strip, in order to improve effectiveness, efficiency, productivity and quality of construction projects.
This paper provides an insight into the benifits of using BIM in construction industry at the Gaza Strip. It contributes to the overall body of knowledge relevant to advocating the benefits of BIM among construction organizations in developing countries, where there are limited studies in this area.
Keywords:
BIM, Benefits, Architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, Construction, Life cycle