Building information modelling for public construction projects delivery

Abstract

Despite robust global evidence that Building Information Modelling (BIM) enhances project efficiency, collaboration, and lifecycle performance, its adoption in South Africa’s public-sector construction industry remains fragmented, with no context-specific implementation framework. This study addresses this gap by examining BIM use, barriers, and opportunities across Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECO) disciplines. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a survey of 35 BIM-experienced professionals (83.3% response rate) with seven in-depth interviews with public-sector project managers. Quantitative data were analysed using ordinal logistic regression, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings indicate strong BIM adoption in the design phase but only moderate use in construction management. The qualitative analysis identified five key themes: (1) technical skills requirements and (2) ICT tools, which highlight effort expectancy and facilitating conditions; (3) BIM-enabled improvements in project delivery, reflecting performance expectancy; (4) public-sector-specific institutional enablers, linked to social influence and governance structures; and (5) BIM’s capacity to reduce material wastage, reinforcing performance expectancy with a sustainability focus. Quantitative analysis using exploratory ordinal logistic regression (effective n = 34) revealed no statistically significant relationships between the examined barriers and BIM usage frequency in construction management. These results should be interpreted cautiously due to the modest sample size and were not used to identify key barriers or inform framework development. Drawing on the empirical findings, the study proposes a preliminary Input–Process–Output BIM framework grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and aligned with local procurement and governance systems. The framework provides a practical starting point for enhancing efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in public infrastructure delivery, but requires further validation through larger-scale, longitudinal research.