For most domestic property owners, as long as the opportunity is right, they are generally willing to adopt BIM Technology. This shows that Chinese property owners are open to embracing new technologies. But what exactly holds homeowners back from fully promoting BIM?
Scenario 1: Owners remain hesitant about BIM implementation
BIM is a comprehensive system designed to solve many problems that traditional two-dimensional methods cannot address. However, due to technological and management limitations, some BIM functions are more mature and better suited for large-scale applications in practical engineering projects. Other functions, due to high technical, management, or cost requirements, may only be feasible in well-organized demonstration projects.
Many owners have high expectations for BIM, often assuming that all its functions will be fully realized once adopted, which is unrealistic. The figure below illustrates a typical BIM application throughout a building’s lifecycle. The red areas highlight the most mature and cost-effective BIM applications for owners. When first adopting BIM, homeowners should focus on these proven areas to minimize investment and maximize cost-effectiveness.
Scenario 2: Owners hesitate about the primary use of BIM technology
Like many emerging technologies, BIM currently faces challenges in quantifying its benefits for owners. Although empirical data supports the idea that BIM can save money, building a property is ultimately a one-time, irreversible process. This makes it difficult for many homeowners to make confident decisions regarding BIM adoption.
As a result, during bidding, owners often require construction companies to demonstrate BIM capabilities. When construction companies apply BIM during project execution, owners perceive this as relieving them of certain burdens and costs, effectively transferring these expenses. However, the expectations and demands for BIM use differ significantly between construction companies and owners. Therefore, BIM adoption by construction firms cannot replace the need for owners’ own BIM applications.
This misalignment often leads to BIM outcomes that fall short of owners’ expectations. To address this, homeowners should develop their own BIM expertise. Whether to build an in-house team or hire external third-party services is a choice left to the owners.
In summary, while opinions vary on what hinders BIM promotion among owners, we believe that with bold initiatives and continued effort, BIM Technology will gain wider acceptance and use among property owners.
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