PROSPECT AND STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING IN LAGOS METROPOLIS

Purpose: The Nigerian construction industry has to overcome several challenges to achieve effective implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM). This study seeks to investigate the application of BIM in the Nigerian construction industry. The specific objectives are to find out the prospect for BIM’s adoption and strategies for implementation of BIM in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approach: The population for this study was professionals who have been involved in BIM implementation on building construction projects in Lagos metropolis. A sample of 100 respondents were chosen out of the population using purposive sampling technique, and questionnaires were administered to them. A total of 55 questionnaires were correctly filled and returned, representing 55% response rate. Frequency, percentages and mean scores were used for the analysis.Findings: The results indicated that there is good prospect for BIM adoption in Nigeria and revealed 18 strategies that can enhance its implementation. The study further reveals that creating awareness in the built environment and continuous employee training on BIM are topmost strategies that can enhance the implementation of BIM in Nigeria.Research limitations/Implications: It is concluded that although there are some level of good prospect for the adoption of BIM in Nigeria, however, the prospect is more likely to be for large projects. The implication is that small organizations may not favour the implementation of BIM in Nigeria in the nearest future. Practical implications: The study recommends that continuous employee trainings should be encouraged. This can be achieved via conducting workshops, seminars and other BIM-related events, which will be of advantage to BIM implementation. Originality/value – The study established the prospect of BIM and strategies to improve its implementation in Nigeria.