Benchmarking BIM Levels of Training and Education amongst Construction Management Practitioners

UK Government created a strategic deadline of 2016 for the adoption and use of Level 2 BIM on all centrally procured projects. A shift from Computer Aided Design (CAD) to Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been driven by the need to improve the way that the industry delivers projects. It is believed that BIM better facilitates opportunities for collaboration and project enhancement than traditional project information management processes. It is also thought that by improving the quality of information, and adopting a more collaborative approach through a model- based design industry such advancements can be made. The originality of this research is in developing an understanding of the current-status of BIM training and education amongst construction management practitioners. The present research uses a quantitative survey approach to investigate the current-status of BIM awareness, understanding, use, and perceptions towards readiness for the 2016 mandate. Results highlight that approximately half of the sample have received some kind of education or training although there were higher levels of BIM awareness, use and understanding. Investigations also reveal that the majority of training and education received by practitioners is self-sourced, but amongst those respondents who have not received any education or training there are expectations that employers should provide these.