Currently, the development prospects for domestic BIM modeling software can be summarized in three key points:
1. Massive Growth Potential in China’s Construction Industry Digitalization
Driven by global digital trends and increasing industry demands, China’s construction sector is evolving towards industrialization, sustainability, and enhanced digital integration. However, the level of building informatization in China still has significant room for improvement, with BIM adoption lagging behind that of developed countries and regions.
According to McKinsey International Research Institute’s 2017 report, “China in the Digital Age: Building a New Economy with Global Competitiveness,” the construction industry ranks lowest in digitalization among all Chinese sectors, making its transformation an urgent priority.
Additionally, as construction projects become larger and more complex, and labor costs continue to rise, BIM and other engineering information technologies are poised for rapid growth. The 2020 Analysis Report on BIM Application in Chinese Construction Enterprises highlighted the fast-paced development of BIM in China: construction companies have increased their annual BIM investments by 30%, while related R&D enterprises have grown by over 20%. This expanding market presents tremendous opportunities for BIM modeling software.
2. External Pressures Accelerate BIM Software Localization
Trade tensions between China and the United States have led to many Chinese companies being added to the US Entity List. For example, the 2018 ZTE export ban and the 2020 suspension of MATLAB support to Harbin Institute of Technology illustrate the growing impact of these disputes.
Initially limited to trade, these frictions have extended into various industries including technology hardware, software, and the internet. This situation underscores the critical need for China to achieve independence and control over core software technologies, pushing BIM modeling software localization forward.
At the same time, as industries worldwide move towards networking, digitization, and automation, the demand for advanced information technologies and core software grows significantly. Rapid advancements in software development have enhanced computing and storage capabilities, presenting domestic BIM software with a fresh wave of technological opportunities.
3. Government Support Fuels Growth of Independent BIM Software
High-end software plays a pivotal role in driving the latest technological revolution and industrial transformation. Within engineering and construction, BIM modeling software is vital for industry modernization and upgrading.
The Chinese government places strong emphasis on developing homegrown BIM modeling software, implementing a series of supportive policies to promote an independent and controllable BIM software industry chain. With continued policy support, the domestic BIM software sector is set to enter a golden era of growth.
Source: “Research on the Influencing Factors and Improvement Path of BIM Modeling Software Development in China” by Chen Jianqiang
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