Identification of critical soft cost elements in BIM-based construction projects

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Identification of critical soft cost elements in BIM-based construction projects

A Delphi survey

Journal Article (2025)

Author(s)

Abdelrahman M. Farouk (Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah)

Rahimi A. Rahman (Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Daffodil International University)

Ahmad Tarmizi Haron (Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah)

Eleni Papadonikolaki (TU Delft - Integral Design & Management)

Research Group

Integral Design & Management

DOI related publication

https://doi.org/10.1108/BEPAM-12-2024-0289

Construction projects Building information modeling (BIM) Systematic literature review Delphi survey Soft costs

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More Info

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Publication Year

2025

Language

English

Research Group

Integral Design & Management

Bibliographical Note

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Abstract

Purpose
Building information modeling (BIM) offers numerous benefits for construction projects, but its implementation can include additional non-physical costs, commonly referred to as soft costs, distinct from traditional construction projects. Hence, understanding the soft cost elements (SCEs) is critical for accurate cost estimation in BIM-based construction projects. This study aims to identify the critical SCEs in BIM-based construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach
This study conducted a multi-stage approach, starting with an SLR to compile an initial list of SCEs, which was refined through a pilot test with BIM experts. A Delphi survey conducted with 16 experts evaluated the SCEs for two rounds. Data analysis included mean values and percentage of agreement analyses to identify the critical SCEs. Finally, a thematic analysis was conducted to categorize the critical SCEs.

Findings
This study identified eight critical SCEs in BIM-based construction projects, categorized into two categories: technology and human resources. Technology-related costs include BIM software, hardware, updates and BIM-specific planning/designing. Human resource-related costs encompass BIM consultant, modeler, coordinator and manager remuneration.

Originality/value
This is the first study to determine the critical SCEs in BIM-based construction projects. Understanding the critical SCEs provides stakeholders with actionable insights for developing strategies to improve the cost management of SCEs in BIM-based construction projects.

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