Publications / 2020 Proceedings of the 37th ISARC, Kitakyushu, Japan

Status of 4D BIM Implementation in Indian Construction

V. Paul C. Charlesraj and Talapaneni Dinesh
Pages 199-206 (2020 Proceedings of the 37th ISARC, Kitakyushu, Japan, ISBN 978-952-94-3634-7, ISSN 2413-5844)
Abstract:

Enhanced visualisation is one of the low hanging fruits of BIM implementation. It helps in improving clarity in communications and fosters collaboration & coordination of construction projects for efficient delivery. 4D BIM combines the proposed sequence of work in a project with the 3D parametric digital model of the facility to be built. 4D BIM is highly beneficial both for managing people and materials. It can revolutionise the way facilities are designed, managed and developed. Significant benefits of 4D BIM have been reported in project planning & programming/scheduling, progress monitoring, conflict prevention & resolution, data security and construction safety. 4D BIM also adds value to business by facilitating marketing and sales. BIM has been primarily used by design & management consultants and some large contractors in India for design optimisation and construction project management. While 4D BIM has the potential to contribute for the efficient project delivery, there is limited literature on the extent of 4D BIM implementation in India. An attempt has been made to investigate the status of 4D BIM implementation in India and study the perceived benefits, barriers and drivers by key stakeholders in the construction sector using a questionnaire survey among clients and contractors. The results revealed high levels of awareness of 4D BIM, but the usage is low. Plan for usage in the short term is also found to be low. There is no significant difference in perception between the clients and contractors on benefits, barriers & drivers of 4D BIM. Visualizing the construction flow, Validating the time schedules by simulations and Communicating the construction plan are found to be the most perceived benefits. Lack of 4D BIM knowledge within internal workforce, Traditional project delivery methods/contract and Lack of 4D BIM expertise in the market have been reported as the critical barriers. The key drivers of 4D BIM are Government Mandate for 4D BIM and Awareness of 4D BIM benefits and ROI.

Keywords: 4D BIM; Application & benefits; Barriers & challenges; Indian construction