Investigation of the current usage of BIM capabilities by large-sized building contractors in Kenya based on theory of innovation diffusion

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the four user characteristics of innovation diffusion (availability, observability and trialability [AOT], simplicity, relative advantage [RA] and interoperability) to observe their influence on building information modelling (BIM) usage. This study focuses on the Kenyan construction industry, specifically the building contractors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses purposive sampling and specifically focusses on active construction sites that met requirements needed for BIM usage to thrive. Data was collected manually using questionnaires ( N = 62).

Findings

This paper contributes to the analysis of the current state of BIM usage by the Kenyan construction industry specifically among building contractors and confirms that Kenya is at the early majority adopters’ stage of diffusion characterised by low BIM usage. In terms of correlation, this study found out that AOT had a strong positive correlation with usage, RA had a moderate positive correlation with usage, simplicity had a weak positive correlation with usage and interoperability had no correlation with usage.

Practical implications

This study gives a clear trend on BIM usage among building contractors to assist potential BIM users make informed decision. The recommendations in this study can be adopted by any late adopter jurisdiction whose structure of the construction industry is similar to Kenya’s.

Originality/value

This paper highlights variables that enable or subdue BIM usage. It goes further to localise and contextualise the barriers for deeper understanding of what makes these barriers be major hindrances towards BIM usage and giving practical solutions to these barriers.