Awareness and Acceptability of 4D BIM in Vertical Construction among BIM Specialists

Abstract

This study aims to determine the awareness and acceptability of 4D BIM in Vertical Constructions among BIM Specialists. Descriptive method was used to obtain the data needed in the study, with a total of 30 BIM specialists participating in this study. The findings show that the BIM Specialists recognized the 4D BIM, even if it was not fully implemented on projects locally. Being aware of the software features of 4D BIM, in which it was expected to be applied to vertical construction could strengthen the implementation plan, and process as a key ingredient for a successful execution of 4D BIM on projects. The study shows that the respondents agreed that implementing 4D BIM in vertical construction was really beneficial. With the help of better visualization and communication, AEC professionals can achieve a better and common understanding of the project scope and objectives, which can improve the construction planning and execution process significantly leading to the project success. The proposed Implementation procedure for the application of 4D BIM to Vertical Construction were: (1) Identify 4D BIM Goals and Uses; (2) Include the 4D BIM in designing the BIM Project Execution Process; (3) Develop the information content, level of detail, and responsible party for each exchange in 4D BIM; and (4) Review final Implementation Plan.. In the proposed Implementation Procedure for the application of 4D BIM to Vertical Construction, the research concludes that: to effectively integrate 4D BIM into the project delivery process, it is important for the team to develop a detailed execution plan for 4D BIM implementation. One of the most important steps in the planning process was to clearly define the potential value of 4D BIM on the project and for project team members through defining the overall goals for BIM implementation. The ability to visualize the project’s progress from the computer before breaking ground makes a practice field for the construction managers to make the project highly engaging and efficient. In our local industry where developments in construction are quite slow, this BIM technology is truly revolutionary.