In a groundbreaking study published in the *Frontiers in the Built Environment* (a journal focused on the built environment), researchers have developed a comprehensive decision support system (DSS) to help construction firms transition to BIM Level 3, a advanced stage of Building Information Modeling that promises significant efficiency gains and sustainability improvements. The research, led by Lama Abumoeilak from the Department of Civil Engineering at the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, offers a practical pathway for achieving BIM Level 3 maturity, which could reshape the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
The AEC sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, solid waste, and potable water usage. BIM Level 3, with its emphasis on full collaboration and data interoperability, offers a digital framework to address these challenges. However, most organizations are still at BIM Level 2 maturity, limiting their potential for full integration and the associated benefits.
Abumoeilak’s research proposes a DSS that integrates Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to identify and prioritize key drivers for BIM Level 3 adoption. These drivers include political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, legal, and environmental factors.
The study validates the DSS through case studies, demonstrating its ability to align organizational strategies with sustainable practices. One organization highlighted the DSS’s comprehensive assessment capabilities, while another emphasized its predictive accuracy in environmental performance outcomes.
“This DSS is a game-changer for the AEC industry,” said Abumoeilak. “It provides a structured approach to BIM Level 3 implementation, helping organizations enhance efficiency, support digital transformation, and advance sustainability.”
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As buildings become more energy-efficient and sustainable, the demand for energy decreases, potentially reshaping energy markets and reducing carbon footprints. Moreover, the DSS’s predictive capabilities can help energy companies anticipate and plan for changes in energy demand, optimizing their operations and investments.
The research also underscores the importance of data interoperability and collaboration in achieving BIM Level 3 maturity. By breaking down silos and fostering a collaborative environment, organizations can unlock the full potential of BIM, driving innovation and efficiency in the AEC industry.
As the built environment continues to evolve, the need for sustainable, efficient practices becomes increasingly urgent. Abumoeilak’s research offers a practical, data-driven approach to achieving these goals, paving the way for a more sustainable future. With the DSS’s ability to align organizational strategies with sustainable practices, it could become an indispensable tool for construction firms looking to stay competitive in an increasingly environmentally conscious market.
In the words of Abumoeilak, “This is not just about adopting new technology; it’s about transforming the way we think about and approach construction. It’s about building a more sustainable, efficient, and collaborative future.”