Four-pillar model of BIM-enabled integration and collaboration

A theory called the four-pillar model of integration and collaboration in the BIM supply chain, or BIM-SCM, says that the most important things that affect integration and collaboration in the BIM supply chain are network communication (NC), knowledge sharing and transfer (KST), information sharing and exchange (ISE), and trust-based relationships (TBR). Trust-based relationships within the BIM-SCM (Building Information Modelling—Supply Chain Management) framework were regarded as manifestations of integration and collaboration. This is due to the fundamental role that trust plays in facilitating successful interactions and dispositions among the various entities comprising the construction project supply chain. The model explicitly elucidated that ISE is a pivotal Building Information Modelling (BIM) principle and process that necessitates the seamless integration of project participants and project information. The data suggests that the inclusion of Building Information Modelling (BIM) requirements introduces complexities to the communication process and modifies the inherent characteristics of communication within the BIM-SCM framework. The examination of the interrelationship between Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Supply Chain Management (SCM) across various dimensions of the chain network has unveiled the intricacies involved. The interconnection is facilitated by an array of electronic collaborative tools, including e-mail, teleconferencing, mobile phones, the internet, multimedia, virtual reality, and the intranet. Additionally, network structures such as contractual relationships, coordination mechanisms, integration processes, and collaboration requirements contribute to the establishment of this interconnection. The inherent characteristics of communication within the Building Information Modelling (BIM) process suggest a distinct mode of communication characterised by systematic and regulated exchanges. The mode of communication under consideration occurs through an electronic collaborative network and its associated network structures. Regular communication must be reciprocated, thereby establishing a mutual exchange of information. It should also facilitate the provision of feedback, enabling the participants to share their thoughts and opinions. Furthermore, effective communication should possess a multi-dimensional nature, encompassing various aspects and perspectives. Lastly, it should occur in real-time, ensuring prompt and immediate interaction between the involved parties. The phenomenon under consideration pertains to the manifestation of networked communication within the context of BIM supply chain organisations. Notably, the occurrence of frequent communication is observed among team members and various groups throughout the different stages of the project lifecycle. The proposed model suggests that the process of knowledge sharing and transfer (KST) within the context of building information modelling (BIM) and supply chain management (SCM) occurs via various means, including formal and informal discussions, reviews, collaborative teamwork, utilisation of building information models, access to project databases, examination of project proceedings, generation of insights and comments, and compilation of reports. This implies that the dissemination and transmission of knowledge within the BIM supply chain is characterised by a mutually beneficial process of exchanging and sharing ideas, innovations, expertise, or feedback. Therefore, the establishment of KST as a prominent objective of integration and a substantial contributor to the effectiveness of BIM applications on construction projects has been confirmed. While it is true that not all construction knowledge is incorporated into the BIM process or the creation of building information models, it is undeniable that it exerts a significant influence on both the BIM process and the development of building information models. This phenomenon can be attributed to the fact that, within the Building Information Modelling (BIM) process, the KST plays a crucial role in consolidating all pertinent project support data to facilitate efficient project delivery. The inclusion of KST is essential for enhancing the integration of construction knowledge within the Building Information Modelling (BIM) process. This integration is achieved through the optimisation of various aspects, including information collection, interoperability, information flow, and information retrieval. This observation suggests the existence of knowledge pertaining to building information modelling (BIM). BIM-related knowledge encompasses a range of informational artefacts, including reports, comments, drawings, documents, process records, problems encountered and resolved, expert recommendations, accumulated expertise, innovative ideas, experiential notes, and design objectives. Consequently, the exchange of building information models and the retrieval of data from said models constitute the fundamental basis for knowledge dissemination within the BIM-SCM framework.