Workflow Governance in BIM: ISO 19650, BEPs, and LODs; A Case for Papua New Guinea

The advancement of digitalization in the construction industry led to the development of Building Information Modeling (BIM), as the governance framework covers physical and functional assets throughout the entire project lifecycle, from concept to demolition, and not just the design phase. This transformation is driven by “ISO19650 standards”, “Level of Development (LOD)” standards, and “BIM Executive Programs (BEPs)” that streamline processes, accelerate collaboration and ensure consistency of information. However, the results of this study show that, despite the progresses globally there are still fragmentation in implementation and lack of integration in pre-construction, construction and post-construction stages. This critical study consolidates recent research on BEP, ISO19650 and LOD frameworks and explores the interrelations and roles in digital project management. Results indicate how ISO19650 may support global information protocols, the need for operational governance BEPs and the role of LODs in terms of openness and accountability. But there are limits to interoperability, stakeholder alignment, and lifespan continuity. PNG research to fill gaps in interoperability, stakeholder coordination, and lifecycle continuity by incorporating ISO 19650 that provides strong global information protocols, BEPs that provides day-to-day management practices, and LODs that promotes transparency and accountability. The construction industry has serious difficulties of fragmented regulation, limited computer literacy and high dependence on donor sponsored projects. “There is much that construction sectors and stakeholders can do to improve transparency and asset management by adapting ISO 19650 to PNG procurement systems, including simplified BEPs and LODs with local practices.” In this review, a collaborative governance paradigm is offered. This model sees BIM as a strategic tool to support developing and underdeveloped countries in building sustainable, resilient, and transparent projects.