A contextualist perspective to drivers of BIM in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry

There are disparities in the adoption of BIM between firms of different sizes and diverse locations. Although extant studies have explored drivers to BIM, there is a dearth of contextualist perspectives. How does the context of size (SME or large firm) and location (developed or developing economy) affects the perception of firms on drivers to BIM? Questions relating to these contexts are still underexplored in extant literature. Thus, this study aims to evaluate and analyse the divide of BIM drivers in these contexts via a comparative study. Data was collected through an international survey from 228 professionals in firms of diverse sizes and locations. The responses were analysed using mean score ranking, rank agreement factor, Mann-Whitney U test and principal components analysis. A comparative analyse was conducted which revealed that the SMEs and large firms differ in their perceptions of desire for innovation, availability of resources and collaboration as drivers to BIM. Similarly, it was highlighted that there is a deep divide between developed and developing countries which would underscore the transferability of best practices and global BIM solutions. The study provided empirical evidence of the BIM divide and would be of importance in bridging the traditionally fragmented construction industry.