The impact of building information modelling (BIM) on professional roles, relationships and skills in the architecture/engineering/construction industry

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a relatively new approach for improving construction productivity and performance. Research in BIM has commonly focused on technical implementations and process change; little work to date has addressed the impact on and changes required of practitioners involved. The aim of this project is to explore how BIM implementation influences the roles and relationships of industry participants, in relation to new roles created as a result of BIM, and adjustments made to existing roles which occur with BIM adoption. By understanding how BIM affects industry participants, this research can offer guidance for companies establishing a BIM environment either through recruitment or training, or for individuals interested in a career in a BIMactive role. It can also provide recommendations for educators as to what curriculum development is required to fill BIM role/skill gaps, and highlight best practice around roles and relationships that will help facilitate more effective use of the technology and process solutions that BIM offers.