In the rapidly evolving landscape of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing project planning, execution, and management. A recent narrative literature review published in the *Journal Innovation of Civil Engineering* (translated from Indonesian as *Journal of Civil Engineering Innovation*), led by Jalaludin from Universitas Dian Nusantara, delves into the theoretical foundations, benefits, and barriers of BIM, offering a comprehensive overview that could reshape the future of construction and energy infrastructure.
BIM, a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility, has been gaining traction for its ability to enhance design quality, facilitate collaboration, improve cost estimation, promote sustainability, and optimize lifecycle management. “BIM offers significant advantages in streamlining project workflows and reducing errors, which can lead to substantial cost savings and improved project outcomes,” Jalaludin explains. This is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where precision and efficiency are paramount.
The study highlights several key benefits of BIM, including enhanced visualization through 3D modeling, time management with 4D BIM, and cost estimation with 5D BIM. These capabilities are crucial for energy projects, where accurate planning and execution can significantly impact project timelines and budgets. “By integrating BIM into energy projects, we can achieve better coordination among stakeholders, reduce rework, and enhance overall project efficiency,” Jalaludin adds.
However, the implementation of BIM is not without its challenges. The study identifies several barriers, including high initial investment, lack of skilled professionals, interoperability issues, and organizational resistance. These challenges are particularly relevant in the energy sector, where projects often involve complex systems and require high levels of coordination among multiple stakeholders.
To illustrate the practical application of BIM, the study includes a case study on a residential building project, demonstrating the use of 3D, 4D, and 5D BIM. This case study provides valuable insights into how BIM can be effectively implemented in real-world scenarios, offering a roadmap for other projects in the energy sector.
The review concludes with recommendations to enhance BIM adoption through standardization, training, supportive policies, and promoting its role in sustainable construction. These recommendations are particularly relevant for the energy sector, where sustainability and efficiency are key priorities.
As the AEC sector continues to evolve, BIM is poised to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of construction and energy infrastructure. By addressing the identified barriers and leveraging the benefits of BIM, the energy sector can achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in its projects. This research not only sheds light on the current state of BIM adoption but also provides a roadmap for future developments in the field.