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A deployment framework for BIM localization

Jing Wang (Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China)
Weisheng Lu (Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China)

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management

ISSN: 0969-9988

Article publication date: 9 March 2021

Issue publication date: 10 February 2022

967

Abstract

Purpose

Over the past two decades, building information modeling (BIM) has been promoted as one of the most disruptive innovations across the global architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) community. Nevertheless, despite its widely propagated benefits, BIM adoption in various localities is not progressing excitingly. BIM as an innovation developed from a presumed, general context may not fit well with the specific regulatory, social and cultural settings of a locality. This study aims to tackle the lukewarm local BIM adoption by developing a deployment framework for BIM localization.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the diffusion of innovation (DoI) theory, a longitudinal case study is designed and conducted by engaging closely with a top cost consultancy company in Hong Kong for forty-one months.

Findings

The findings refuted the “one-size-fits-for-all” view to use a standardized BIM for international users. Rather, an organization needs to undergo a series of localization works to integrate global BIM in its specific local context. The deployment framework outlines the BIM dimensions (i.e. technology, process and protocol) and the mechanisms (i.e. configuration, coupling and reinterpretation) of BIM localization that go through the three “A”s (i.e. analysis, adaption and assimilation) process under a firm's network and contextual factors.

Originality/value

This study improves our understanding of sluggish BIM adoption by attributing it to the gap between general BIM development and the local, unique BIM use context. Proposing the deployment framework, the study also offers a handy tool for prospective executives to localize BIM and harness its power in their respective organizations and localities.

Keywords

Citation

Wang, J. and Lu, W. (2022), "A deployment framework for BIM localization", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 29 No. 1, pp. 407-430. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-09-2020-0747

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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