The Competencies of BIM Specialists: a Comparative Analysis of the Literature Review and Job Ad Descriptions

An effective implementation and use of BIM technologies and processes requires the inclusion of new professionals in AEC organizations. Each position must have particular competencies. In seeking to fulfill the market demand for these professionals, universities are making an effort to integrate BIM in their curricula, especially in the fields of architecture, civil engineering and majors in construction management. However, to ensure a proper planning of how to integrate BIM in the course programs, it is necessary to find out what competencies are required from BIM professionals. The same information is useful for companies that adopt management competency models or those that need to select and recruit BIM specialists. This Paper describes the results of a research project based on the Content Analysis of BIM job ads and the technical literature. Competency lists from both sources were compiled and compared. The results of the analysis show that, although there are different focuses, both the job market and specialists are generally in agreement about which competencies a BIM Manager should have, to perform well.

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