Abstract
Interdisciplinary collaboration is critical for the successful execution of infrastructure development
projects, necessitating seamless integration among diverse disciplines such as project
management, architecture, and various engineering fields. Building Information Modelling (BIM)
has emerged as a transformative tool that can enhance collaboration, efficiency, and overall
project outcomes.
It addresses persistent challenges with traditional interdisciplinary collaboration approaches that
negatively impact project productivity and efficiency.
The study utilises purposive sampling to engage people currently utilizing BIM and employs a
mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with industry professionals and
quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive insights. The research is exploratory and aims to
uncover new knowledge in implementing BIM to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration in
infrastructure development.
The selected participants were interviewed online to gather qualitative insights on effective
methods for using BIM to improve collaboration. Additionally, surveys were distributed to collect
quantitative information regarding the typical challenges encountered when implementing
interdisciplinary collaboration through BIM.
Three main research questions were formulated: What are the pros and cons of using BIM for
collaboration in infrastructure projects? How does BIM enhance interdisciplinary collaboration?
What challenges arise in implementing this collaboration through BIM?
The findings reveal that implementing BIM for interdisciplinary collaboration in infrastructure
development is vital for the efficient and timely delivery of infrastructure projects. The drawbacks
of implementing BIM are the high initial costs and industry-wide resistance to its adoption.
Key recommendations for improving BIM adoption and effectiveness include enhancing education
and training Programmes, implementing supportive government policies, and overall mandated
standardization of its implementation.
Despite the promising findings, the research acknowledges limitations such as a smaller sample
size due to limited BIM adoption, potential subjectivity in qualitative data, and regional differences.
This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing practical strategies for
leveraging BIM to enhance interdisciplinary collaboration in infrastructure development. The
insights and recommendations presented can guide stakeholders in effectively implementing BIM,
thereby improving project outcomes and advancing the AEC industry’s collaborative practices.