In the dynamic landscape of the construction industry, the call for transparency and efficiency is louder than ever. Technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are no longer optional—they are indispensable tools driving the sector towards a more streamlined and sustainable future.
Dr. Ta Ngoc Binh, Head of the Digital Investment and Construction Economics Department at the Construction Economics Institute, Ministry of Construction, underscores the transformative power of BIM. Citing global projects, Dr. Binh highlights how BIM technology has revolutionized construction management. For instance, the Crossrail line in the United Kingdom, now known as the Elizabeth Line, saved hundreds of millions of pounds by synchronizing data management, reducing design conflicts, and optimizing construction processes. In Singapore, BIM’s integration into the e-permitting system has slashed project appraisal times by up to 50%. Similarly, metro projects in Helsinki and the Queensferry Crossing bridge in Scotland have leveraged BIM to control progress, costs, risks, and plan long-term maintenance.
In Vietnam, BIM is proving its mettle in state-funded projects, social housing developments, and complex urban infrastructure. Nguyen Tien Thong, Head of the Technical Team at the Project Implementation Management Department 1, Hanoi Urban Railway Management Board, notes that while BIM is still in its early stages in urban railway projects in Hanoi, it has already enhanced the visualization of future infrastructure. BIM not only aids in creating digital assets parallel to physical ones but also supports long-term operations and enhances project value.
With Vietnam’s roadmap mandating BIM in public investment projects from 2024 and specific policies for the railway sector, the application of BIM is poised to become more seamless and effective. However, the journey towards a fully integrated BIM ecosystem is fraught with challenges. Tran Phuc Minh Khoi, Deputy General Director of Portcoast Consultant Corporation, warns that BIM’s effectiveness hinges on more than just technology. Investors must embrace change, foster interdisciplinary coordination, and develop a clear data strategy. Fragmented data remains a common issue, with datasets often unable to communicate with each other. Khoi envisions a future where BIM models are interconnected with GIS, IoT, and AI, creating a dynamic digital model that supports rapid and accurate decision-making.
Dr. Binh echoes these sentiments, highlighting the major barriers to digitalization: the costs of software, infrastructure, training, and leadership mindset. To strongly develop BIM in the construction sector, Dr. Binh advocates for a comprehensive ecosystem built around three pillars: institutional improvement, human resource development, and technological mastery. This involves establishing clear legal frameworks, detailed guidelines, and fostering cooperation with reputable domestic and international organizations to deeply integrate BIM with GIS.
The institute is set to build a digital data platform and develop BIM application guidelines to support planning, appraisal, permitting, and project management in an intelligent, efficient, and sustainable manner. As Vietnam and the global construction industry continue to navigate these challenges, the integration of BIM and GIS is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a paradigm shift towards a more transparent, efficient, and sustainable future.