Identification of 4D-BIM Barriers in Offshore Construction Projects Using Fuzzy Structural Equation Modeling

Abstract

Planners face many obstacles during the planning phase of any new project, especially project scheduling due to the numerous details and complexity of each uniquely designed project; previous experience in similar projects and traditional scheduling methods are not sufficient. The 4D-BIM schedule is the best solution, as it can be integrated with other modern technologies such as UAS, which improves project scheduling by allowing the project team to access project plans, details, and time-related information to simulate construction sequences. Despite the benefits of using 4D-BIM, planners prefer traditional planning and scheduling methods because of the barriers to using modern technologies. This research proposes a structural equation model focusing on estimating the weights of BIM barriers in offshore construction projects, including: the investigation of barriers keeping the construction industry standing at 3D-BIM; the relationships between them; and the evaluation of the probability and impact of each, using fuzzy theory. To validate the proposed model, a case study of an offshore project was conducted. The most important latent variables were awareness, risk, demand, and management, while the most prominent observed variables were the uncertainty of the return on investment and the lack of experienced users. This research guides project managers on actions that can be taken for each key variable to enhance and develop the use of 4D-BIM in project scheduling.