A phenomenological inquiry of Building Information Modelling macro-adoption in Uruguay

Eva Labadie Olivera, Colin Booth, Kofi Agyekum*, Dalia Al-Tarazi, Hayford Pittri

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Building information modelling (BIM) application in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sectors has received attention, particularly in most Global North countries. However, there is a dearth of literature on its application in the Global South context. This research explores insights into the uptake and use of BIM in the Uruguayan AEC sector and proposes recommendations for accelerating its adoption. This study adopted the phenomenological research design. Through interviews with experts, this study relies on phenomenological analysis of a purposely sampled group of (n = 7) experts in BIM in the Uruguayan AEC industry. The discoveries and findings confirm that BIM is still at an early stage of maturity, and many practitioners still need to be convinced of its benefits. Therefore, pilot projects and the development of BIM guidelines are essential to align industry procedures and demonstrate the benefits of implementing BIM to convince hesitant professionals and increase levels of adoption. Furthermore, organisations’ main implementation drivers are external forces such as client requirements or the need to acquire a competitive advantage. This study’s findings imply that BIM diffusion dynamics in Uruguay are more aligned with a top-down approach, thus highlighting a design for ‘push’ by authorities such as the government. Overall, this study fills a research gap in the Uruguayan AEC industry and provides an academic reference background for policymakers for future actions. The paper is of value, as it contributes to the current state-of-the-art BIM research by drawing insights from the AEC industry in a typical developing country context.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)137-149
Number of pages13
JournalProceedings of Institution of Civil Engineers: Management, Procurement and Law
Volume177
Issue number3
Early online date25 Apr 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2024

Keywords

  • AEC industry
  • Building Information Modelling (BIM)
  • UN SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities
  • UN SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production
  • UN SDG 3: Good health and well-being
  • UN SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation
  • UN SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth
  • UN SDG 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
  • Uruguay
  • macro-adoption
  • phenomenological insights

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • General Business,Management and Accounting
  • Civil and Structural Engineering

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