Principal Strategies for Improving Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technology for Architectural Consultancy Practices During Design Phases

Due to the increasing growth of the building sector in Malaysia, efficient information management systems are important in Architectural Consultancy Practices (ACP). Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a revolutionary application aiming to increase efficiency in the construction process, augment competency, and boost productivity. BIM has not achieved major adoption in ACP due to the lack of comprehensive BIM guidelines for the Schematic Design (SD) and Design Development (DD) stage, low BIM competency, and increased operational expenses linked with technology, training, and software/hardware. Specifically, this study proposes to (1) evaluate the present use of BIM in the SD and DD stages, (2) identify hindrances in these phases, and (3) build a framework of best practice standards for BIM implementation to aid architects. A qualitative investigation is done via structured interviews with eight ACP specialists, each possessing over three years of BIM competence. Results emphasised three critical criteria covering technology, people, and procedures. These concepts encourage design collaboration and installation, better detect defects, and improve simulation and cooperation. Future research needs to explore other BIM tools and additional ACP phases.