In the heart of Indonesia’s public sector, a digital revolution is quietly reshaping the way construction projects are conceived, executed, and maintained. At the forefront of this transformation is the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (MPWH), where Building Information Modeling (BIM) is steadily gaining traction. A recent study, led by Nofa Fakhur Rakhman from the Civil Engineering and Planning Department at Gunadarma University, has shed light on the varying degrees of BIM maturity within the ministry, offering valuable insights into the future of digital construction in Indonesia.
BIM, a process involving the generation and management of digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places, has been integrated across various project phases, from planning and execution to operations and maintenance. However, the extent of its adoption and its impact on cost efficiency, quality, and time management has remained largely unexplored within the Indonesian public sector. Rakhman’s study, published in the journal *Rekayasa Sipil* (translated to English as “Civil Engineering”), aims to fill this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of BIM implementation in construction projects under the MPWH.
The study employed a descriptive research method, utilizing manual data analysis from internal monitoring reports, questionnaire responses, and literature reviews. The level of BIM implementation was assessed across three core dimensions: technology, processes, and policy frameworks. These were measured using the BIM Maturity Index (BIMMI), which showed maturity levels ranging from “Managed” to “Integrated,” depending on the sub-category.
On average, BIM adoption within the ministry is categorized at the “Managed” level, with a BIMMI score of 55%. However, the readiness across technological infrastructure, operational procedures, and regulatory frameworks varies widely among organizational units. For instance, the Directorate General of Highways (DGH) achieved an “Optimised” level with a score of 83%, while the Directorate General of Human Settlements (DGHS) reached an “Integrated” level at 73%. In contrast, the Directorate General of Water Resources (DGWR) and the Directorate General of Housing (DGH) showed much lower maturity levels, at 37% and 13% respectively, particularly in contractual policy readiness, which remains at an “Ad-hoc” level (27%).
“The findings highlight a critical research question: How do variations in policy readiness and technological infrastructure influence BIM maturity across MPWH units?” Rakhman explained. “The results support the hypothesis that policy readiness is the most decisive factor limiting BIM integration, offering novel insights for designing targeted national strategies to accelerate BIM adoption.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the borders of Indonesia, particularly for the energy sector. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable infrastructure, the adoption of BIM can play a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of construction projects. By providing a digital twin of physical assets, BIM enables better decision-making, reduces costs, and improves project outcomes.
Moreover, the study’s findings underscore the importance of policy frameworks in driving digital transformation. As Rakhman noted, “Policy readiness is the most decisive factor limiting BIM integration.” This insight is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where the adoption of digital technologies is crucial for enhancing the performance and reliability of energy infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the research conducted by Rakhman and his team could shape future developments in the field of digital construction. By providing a comprehensive assessment of BIM maturity within the Indonesian public sector, the study offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with BIM adoption. As the world continues to embrace digital transformation, the lessons learned from Indonesia’s experience could serve as a valuable guide for other countries seeking to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their construction projects.
In the words of Rakhman, “This study offers novel insights for designing targeted national strategies to accelerate BIM adoption.” As the construction industry continues to evolve, the insights gleaned from this research could pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.