Optimising construction project delivery culture using building information modelling

Abstract

The construction industry continues to face poor project performance, fragmented collaboration, and excessive waste, particularly in developing economies. Although BIM enables construction automation through parametric modelling, clash detection, 4D/5D simulation, fabrication workflows, and lifecycle information management, its implementation remains limited by organisational cultural barriers. This study investigates how integrating organisational culture into BIM environments can optimise project delivery and fabrication efficiency. Drawing on Schein’s organisational culture model and acculturation theory, BIM is positioned as a socio-technical platform that combines explicit and tacit knowledge to enhance collaboration and automated workflows. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including a survey of 268 South African architecture, engineering, and construction professionals (42% response rate) and case studies of industrialised building system projects. Findings indicate low BIM maturity, with adoption primarily focused on design visualisation, while inadequate knowledge sharing and resistance to change constrain optimisation. Innovation orientation, coordination, integration, knowledge management, and safety practices emerged as key enablers of BIM effectiveness. The study proposes a context-specific BIM Cultural Melting Pot and Optimisation Hub Framework, demonstrating that BIM optimisation requires integrating organisational culture, knowledge management, and digital technologies. The framework provides a pathway to improve collaboration, automate fabrication processes, reduce waste and rework, and advance sustainable construction practices.