Using Building Information Modelling to achieve Lean principles by improving efficiency of work teams

Abstract

Both Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Lean principles have significant impact on efficiency and effectiveness during a project development process within the construction industry. It is widely accepted that BIM can be used as a tool to help reduce project cost; shorten project duration by optimizing the construction sequence; improving the coordination of project teams; providing communication platform for different disciplines; etc. A further exploration can be made to find out whether BIM can be used as a tool to help project teams to achieve the Lean principles. In this research, a hypothesis was developed to validate if BIM can be used as a tool to achieve the principles of Lean construction by improving the construction productivity during a project. Several metrics were investigated to measure the contributions of BIM towards project productivity. By analysing a case study, this paper explores the connection between BIM and Lean principles; the contribution of BIM in the improvement of coordination and collaboration of work teams; enhancement of project quality; and reduction of waste and cost.