Title: Synchronising building information modelling challenges with sustainable development objectives: a case study of the Malaysian construction industry

Authors: Yasir Hussein Ahmed; Sharifah Akmam Syed Zakaria; Salman Riazi Mehdi Riazi

Addresses: School of Civil Engineering, Engineering Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia ' School of Civil Engineering, Engineering Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia ' School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau, Pinang, Malaysia

Abstract: Achieving profitability and sustainability in construction projects necessitates a cohesive strategy that spans the entire project lifecycle, ensuring optimal financial outcomes while adhering to sustainability criteria. Despite the limited adoption of building information modelling (BIM) in emerging nations, extensive research has explored BIM principles. Yet, there remains a significant gap in understanding the impact of BIM challenges and applications on the triple-bottom-line (TBL) of sustainability. This study aims to unveil the impediments to BIM implementation in the construction industry of advancing countries and investigates how these obstacles influence the TBL of sustainability. To achieve this, a comprehensive literature review is conducted, leading to the development of a conceptual model. Employing partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and a survey questionnaire, data is gathered from 269 stakeholders in the Malaysian construction industry. The findings reveal that challenges related to training and personnel, cost and standards, and processes, economic factors, and technology are the primary hindrances to BIM deployment in Malaysia. Furthermore, the model forecasts that information integration significantly impacts the BIM implementation process and its usability. These results provide a foundational basis for policymaking in emerging nations, guiding efforts to overcome BIM hurdles and promote sustainable construction projects. Ultimately, the study aims to enhance the success of the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

Keywords: building information modelling; BIM; information integration; sustainable construction project; triple-bottom-line; TBL; partial least square structural equation modelling; PLS-SEM; Malaysia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.150138

International Journal of Project Organisation and Management, 2025 Vol.17 No.4, pp.373 - 399

Received: 05 Jan 2024
Accepted: 18 Sep 2024
Published online: 01 Dec 2025 *

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