Title: Collaboration environments for small and medium-sized architecture, engineering and construction enterprises: success factors in implementation

Authors: Aisha Abuelmaatti; Vian Ahmed

Addresses: University of Bolton, Deane Road Greater Manchester, BL3 5AB, UK ' University of Salford, The Crescnt, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK

Abstract: Collaboration in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sector increases productivity, improves quality, competitiveness and profitability. This poses the problem of what are the most appropriate collaboration methods available. With building information modelling (BIM) being imposed by the UK Government on AEC projects, the development of new technology is one solution, but ensuring the whole-sector adoption is fundamental. It is commonly observed that SMEs have fewer chances to get it right and so they need guidance. A qualitative study of 14 cases was developed to map the current practice of implementations and their success level. The case studies revealed a number of factors affecting the success at the organisation level. This also led to further quantitative investigation of the factors affecting the collaboration at the end-user level. The results suggested that the success of collaborative technologies depends on 23 factors. Recommendations from these findings are used to suggest a path for SMEs to implement BIM.

Keywords: small and medium enterprises; SMEs; architecture, engineering and construction; AEC sector; information technology; IT; organisation readiness and maturity; collaborative working; factor analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJITM.2018.095058

International Journal of Information Technology and Management, 2018 Vol.17 No.4, pp.313 - 333

Accepted: 08 Nov 2016
Published online: 01 Oct 2018 *

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