An international comparative analysis of barriers to BIM adoption in the AEC industry

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become a hot research theme to the improvement of the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) industry. It can produce a number of significant benefits for users. However, BIM adoption has been slower than expected due to the existence of barriers. To expand the BIM adoption in the AEC industry of these three countries, it is necessary to overcome the barriers to BIM adoption. The objectives of this study are to identify the critical barriers to BIM adoption and make an international comparison among Australia, Singapore and China. To achieve these objectives, a questionnaire survey was performed in Australia, Singapore and China, collecting 175 effective and complete responses from professionals. “Lack of tangible benefits” occupied the top position in the overall ranking. In addition, “lack of relevant expertise and knowledge”, “lack of subcontractors who can use BIM technology”, and “lack of BIM data in construction phase” was ranked top in Australia, Singapore and China, respectively. Furthermore, four, six and seven barriers received different scores between Australia and Singapore, Singapore and China, as well as Australia and China, respectively. Australia and Singapore had similar ranking of barriers, despite some differences in mean scores of barriers. This study provides an in-depth understanding of the barriers in different countries, thus facilitating enhancement of BIM adoption in these countries.