A framework for the implementation of mobile BIM technology at project and organisational level supporting lean construction approaches

Jowett, Benjamin Richard (2024) A framework for the implementation of mobile BIM technology at project and organisational level supporting lean construction approaches. Doctoral thesis, Northumbria University.

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Abstract

The UK construction industry faces persistent challenges related to collaboration, productivity, and overall project efficiency. Despite efforts to promote digitalisation, there remains a need for research to establish how digitisation and digitalisation can address these challenges. Mobile BIM technologies (MBT), Lean Construction, and use of data have shown promise in improving project and organisational outcomes. The aim of this research addresses this area in producing a framework for the implementation of MBT, that integrates with Lean Construction and data integration practices, to enable organisational and project benefits.

The research uses a progressively structured mixed methods research design. It is comprised of multiple longitudinal practice-based case studies that use exploratory and descriptive approaches. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis are also used, supporting a systematic research structure.

The main finding of this research establishes that by implementing MBT, Lean Construction, and data integration, project flow is achieved by reducing non-value adding activities. This creates organisational value, realised through reducing variability. Because of this relationship, a continuous improvement cycle is created by integrating data through different stages of an MBT process.

The research makes several contributions to knowledge. Firstly, an MBT technical requirements taxonomy is produced that establishes project and organisational considerations when researching or implementing MBT. Secondly, the research conducts several practice-based case studies, addressing an identified research gap. Finally, the main contribution is in integrating MBT, Lean Construction, and data integration into a unified implementation framework. This addresses a research gap in unifying these three concepts into a single framework.

This research is relevant to practitioners aiming to incorporate MBT into their operations. Additionally, it enables researchers to structure research into MBT, and its role in advancing digitisation and digitalisation in the UK construction industry.

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