Overview of BIM contributions in the construction phase: review and bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a revolutionary invention within the construction industry that essentially aids the design, construction and management of construction projects throughout their lifespan. Globally, the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry has for decades progressively adopted and implemented BIM. While there are several papers in this context, none have tried to extensively document BIM’s comprehensive contributions and uses in the construction phase. Therefore, this paper aims to identify BIM’s various contributions and uses in the construction phase and analyze publication trends, co-occurring keywords, contributing authors and countries. A systematic overview approach was used to review published articles on state-of-the-art of BIM in construction, supported by bibliometric network mapping analysis. A total of 409 documents were extracted and analyzed. The study’s findings document BIM’s various uses and contributions to the AEC industry, such as simulation of each stage of the construction process, virtual presentation of the building and site, visualization of progress, management of construction work, enhancement of safety, communication and collaboration, quick generation of reliable and accurate cost estimates, assistance in the fast realization of return on investment (ROI), and serving as a platform that hosts and documents various technological tools used during the construction phase. The bibliometric analysis reveals the most contributing scholars, countries, document sources, trend network mapping of co-occurring keywords, and publication trends. The primary practical implications of this study’s discoveries can be exploited as a basis for further research and to influence the future direction of BIM in the AEC industry. The findings will enhance the wider spread, application and understanding of BIM in the AEC industry, thereby increasing BIM awareness and knowledge globally.