Conceptual Model of Building Information Modelling Usage for Knowledge Management in Construction Projects

Abstract

Knowledge management (KM) draws on a vital role in highly participatory and diversified working environment of construction projects. Knowledge keeps construction firms competitive and boosts performance high in future work. However, large and chaotic projects require KM achieved with technological support thorough the project life cycle. Building information modelling (BIM) has a wide range of interaction between researchers and practitioners as a new and promising area of technological research and implementation in construction. In the last decade, many researchers worked on the use of BIM in the construction industry. Collaborative interaction is one of the most important promises of BIM. Collaboration between construction professionals can be improved by firmly managed project knowledge. With BIM solutions, it can be easier to externalize, integrate, internalize and socialize knowledge. Operational knowledge and strategic knowledge can be managed through interactive BIM models. This study aims suggesting a conceptual model representing KM process through BIM. A comprehensive literature review on KM and BIM was established to construct the theoretical framework for the assignment of a conceptual model for BIM usage in KM process of construction projects. The proposed conceptual model is a road map for adapting KM process with BIM as a new KM tool. The ability of BIM to manage knowledge is determined. KM process is identified for construction projects. Existing process is reviewed and modified for the BIM usage. In future studies, empirical research will be conducted to strengthen the validation of the proposed model.