Underlying factors guiding Building Information Modelling (BIM) adoption in Nairobi, Kenya.

Abstract

Aspects that are distinct and are primarily beneficial are considered the initial impetus to adoption of new technologies. Building information Modelling (BIM) is one such technology, whereby consultants in the construction industry consider important components of BIM as a deciding factor to its adoption. The objectives of this study were to investigate BIM adoption in Nairobi and to identify significant components in its adoption. This was a descriptive study with a sample of 175 respondents comprising of Civil Engineers, Construction Project Managers, Architects, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Quantity surveyors, Contractors, and Facility Managers. The data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive analysis and Exploratory Factor Analysis methods were used to analyse data. It emerged that 56.6% have adopted BIM and lack of understanding of BIM capabilities seems to be a hindrance to BIM adoption. Efficiency, Versatility, Competitiveness, Intelligence and Transparency were the five underlying factors that were extracted and found to be important to BIM adoption. It is recommended that BIM adoption will take place quicker through raising awareness, giving leadership, education, and training to stakeholders in the construction industry. Further research should be done on how software contributes to lack of understanding of BIM.