Development of BIM implementation framework for digital construction in Turkey

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an innovative approach to integrate the process of planning, design, construction, and operation of a building in 3D and beyond. The developed countries have seen it as a strategic policy approach to transform their construction industry into a knowledge-based sector from labor-based sector. The Turkish construction industry is one of the largest sectors and a major driver of the economic growth in Turkey. Yet, the construction practices and technologies used within the industries are the same old fashion methods and technologies affecting the productivity and efficiency negatively. Further, BIM-based design and construction approach has no common use in the industry in Turkey. Thus, it is required to tackle this challenge and provide a feasible strategic roadmap to enable the industry for the BIM-based practice. This study aims to develop Building Information Modelling and Management framework to the Turkish construction industry in order to build awareness, capacity building for BIM use, and support BIM education and BIM policy initiatives. This research addresses the challenge of how BIM adoption and implementation is possible in the Turkish construction industry. In this research, both qualitative and quantitative methods are employed. The qualitative data stems from document studies, observations, and interviews while quantitative data is collected from a case study project and a questionnaire-based survey. Analysis of the data collected in the research so far has led to the development of BIM implementation framework in Turkey. This roadmap in its strategic implementation includes key aspects such as capacity buildings via events, developing BIM standards and protocols, university education system and related regulations, establishing BIM center acting as a hub for exchange of experience to implement the conceptual framework and accelerate the digital transformation and integration process.