Although BIM has gained significant popularity and promotion in China in recent years, there are still many challenges in its practical application. In my view, the development of BIM in China faces three major obstacles, which I refer to as the “Three Great Mountains.”
First, there is the issue of application software. As previously mentioned, BIM-based software developed in advanced countries is already quite mature, and many of these products have entered the Chinese market. However, relying solely on foreign software is not sufficient. On one hand, these programs often fail to fully comply with China’s design standards. On the other hand, it is crucial for China to develop its own BIM software with independent intellectual property rights. This approach not only creates new economic growth opportunities but also reduces dependence on external sources. As noted, the Eleventh Five-Year Plan has already included research on such application software, highlighting the importance of supporting BIM technology development within national industrial policies to foster its adoption in Chinese enterprises.
Second, there is the matter of standards. Currently, the IFC standard has become increasingly mature internationally as a BIM data standard. Building on this, the United States has introduced the NBIMS standard. In the U.S., the importance of universal standards is somewhat overshadowed because large software developers like Autodesk provide comprehensive software suites that allow seamless data exchange. However, since BIM data is intended for use across the entire lifecycle of construction projects—often spanning 50 years or more—relying on vendor-specific data formats is not sustainable. For China, where such dominant software developers do not exist, it is essential to encourage broader participation in the development of BIM-based software. Establishing national data standards is key to ensuring interoperability among different applications. At present, China has only adopted the platform component of IFC standards, with limited research into foreign standards and little effort to adapt and expand them for China’s unique construction context. Moreover, it is important to recognize that practical implementation requires not only technical data standards like IFC but also higher-level application standards—for example, 3D building design standards—to better support BIM’s use. Universities and research institutions should prioritize this work, while relevant government agencies must offer strong backing.
The final challenge lies in application methods, which can be viewed from two perspectives. Technically, there is a tendency to fall into extremes. One approach is to use BIM technology in isolated aspects of construction projects, such as collision detection. While useful, this limited application prevents fully leveraging BIM’s benefits and the sharing of 3D model data. The other extreme is an all-encompassing approach, where stakeholders expect a single software or a small set of software to solve every problem throughout construction and even the entire building lifecycle. This expectation is unrealistic—no tool is perfect, nor can any one company dominate the entire process. The key is practical application: as long as the technology meets real-world needs, it can be considered effective. Additionally, application models matter. The Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) model offers a successful example abroad. IPD brings together owners, designers, general contractors, and subcontractors, using BIM technology to improve outcomes on construction projects. Internationally, contract templates have evolved through trial and error, enabling IPD’s wider adoption. In China, however, it remains uncertain whether this approach will yield the same results. Even if technical BIM challenges are resolved, promoting IPD faces obstacles due to differences in contracting methods, regulations, and policies compared to other countries. Nonetheless, with courage and persistent effort in experimentation, it is entirely possible to develop effective application models tailored to China’s unique context.
In conclusion, I believe that with sustained attention to BIM technology at both central and local government levels, China is poised to enter a golden age of BIM development and application.
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