scholarly journals The adoption of 4D BIM in the UK construction industry: an innovation diffusion approach

2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (6) ◽  
pp. 950-967 ◽  
Author(s):  
Barry J. Gledson ◽  
David Greenwood

Purpose British construction industry KPI data collected over recent years shows a trend in projects exceeding their time schedules. In 2013, the UK Government set a target for projects timeframes to reduce by 50 per cent. Proposed interventions included more rapid project delivery processes, and consistent improvements to construction delivery predictions, deployed within the framework of 4D Building Information Modelling (BIM). The purpose of this paper is to use Rogers’ Innovation Diffusion theory as a basis to investigate how this adoption has taken place. Design/methodology/approach In total, 97 construction planning practitioners were surveyed to measure 4D BIM innovation take-up over time. Classic innovation diffusion research methods were adopted. Findings Results indicated an increasing rate of 4D BIM adoption and reveal a time lag between awareness and first use that is characteristic of this type of innovation. Research limitations/implications Use of a non-probability sampling strategy prevents the results being generalisable to the wider construction population. Future research directions and methods are suggested, including qualitative investigations into decision-making processes around 4D BIM, and case studies exploring the consequences of 4D BIM adoption. Practical implications Recommendations of how to facilitate the adoption of 4D BIM innovation are proposed, which identify the critical aspects of system compatibility and safe trialling of the innovation. Originality/value This paper reinforces 4D BIM as an innovation and records its actual UK industry adoption rate using an accepted diffusion research method. By focusing on UK industry-wide diffusion the work also stands apart from more typical research efforts that limit innovation diffusion exploration to individual organisations.

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Barry Gledson

Purpose The purpose of this study is to establish an enhanced model of the innovation-decision process (IDP), specifically for construction. An enhanced model of the innovation-decision process (IDP), specifically for construction is established. As context, innovation diffusion theory (IDT) is concerned with explaining how some innovations successfully stick whilst others fail to propagate. Because theoretical models provide abstracted representations of systems/phenomena, established IDT models can help decision-making units with innovation-related sense-marking and problem-solving. However, these occasionally fail or require enhancement to represent phenomena more successfully. This is apparent whenever middle-range theory seems ill-fitted to the complexity of construction. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative research via 13 semi-structured interviews occurred, with participants recruited via convenience and purposive sampling strategies. The study forms part of a broader mixed-method study (n = 246) informed by a research philosophy of pragmatism, investigating the applicability of classic IDT to the adoption of four-dimensional (4D) building information modelling (4D BIM) by the UK construction sector. Findings This diffusion study resulted in the adaptation of an existing IDP model, ensuring a better contextual fit. Classified more specifically as a modular-technological-process innovation, 4D BIM with its potential to provide construction planning improvements is used as a vehicle to show why, for construction, an existing model required theoretical extensions involving additional stages, decision-action points and outcomes. Research limitations/implications This model can assist construction industry actors with future adoption/rejection decisions around modular-technological-process innovations. It also aids the understanding of scholars and researchers, through its various enhancements and by reinforcing the importance of existing diffusion concepts of compatibility and trialability, for these innovation types. Originality/value An enhanced model of the IDP, specifically for construction, is established. This construction-centric contribution to IDT will be of interest to construction scholars and to practitioners.


2015 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 134-152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Taesung Kim

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the advisability of innovation diffusion theory for enhancing the adoption/execution success rate in leading organizational change. Design/methodology/approach – The study design involved an interpretive discussion of innovation diffusion theory and related research, followed by a review of influential models of organizational change management (CM). Through analysis and synthesis of the essential ideas and processes derived from both schools, this study conceptualized an integrated change diffusion model with practical and research implications. Findings – The study findings were presented via an organizational change diffusion model and its phases with major considerations. Leading change should be a systematic but responsive process as visualized by a sequential but recursive flow of the phases; change could sustain with the spontaneous function of organizational dynamics; before-during-after diagnosis and evaluation would be fundamental to the success of change efforts. Research limitations/implications – This study recommended that future research empirically test the validity of this study’s conceptual arguments and attempt to further integrate innovation diffusion and CM research in many areas, including the change leader’s competencies. Extended research opportunities were presented as well. Practical implications – This study suggested that change leaders concentrate resources on a few positively or negatively influential individuals and take advantage of communication networks to persuade and inform others to help with their change adoption. Change leaders were also advised to partner with formal/informal opinion leaders and facilitate each player’s proper role in the change diffusion efforts. An additional suggestion was that system-centric thinking should precede the individual-blame orientation in the root cause analysis of adoption/non-adoption (diffusion/non-diffusion) of a change. Originality/value – This study offers value by enriching CM approaches in consultation with the research asset on innovation diffusion, which has been less capitalized upon in the organizational CM arena. Specifically, value added includes an encompassing consideration of both normative-reeducative and empirical-rational perspectives on individuals’ behavior change, a research-based conceptual extension of CM models, and consummative strategies for effective and efficient change interventions.


2017 ◽  
Vol 24 (6) ◽  
pp. 1119-1154 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ruwini Edirisinghe ◽  
Kerry Anne London ◽  
Pushpitha Kalutara ◽  
Guillermo Aranda-Mena

Purpose Building information modelling (BIM) is increasingly being adopted during construction projects. Design and construction practices are adjusting to the new system. BIM is intended to support the entire project life-cycle: the design and construction phases, and also facility management (FM). However, BIM-enabled FM remains in its infancy and has not yet reached its full potential. The purpose of this paper is to identify major aspects of BIM in order to derive a fully BIM-enabled FM process. Design/methodology/approach In total, 207 papers were classified into main and subordinate research areas for quantitative analysis. These findings were then used to conceptualise a BIM-enabled FM framework grounded by innovation diffusion theory for adoption, and for determining the path of future research. Findings Through an extensive literature review, the paper summarises many benefits and challenges. Major aspects of BIM are identified in order to describe a BIM-enabled FM implementation process grounded by innovation diffusion theory. The major research areas of the proposed framework include: planning and guidelines; value realisation; internal leadership and knowledge; procurement; FM; specific application areas; data capture techniques; data integration; knowledge management; and legal and policy impact. Each element is detailed and is supported by literature. Finally, gaps are highlighted for investigation in future research. Originality/value This paper systematically classifies and evaluates the existing research, thus contributing to the achievement of the ultimate vision of BIM-enabled FM. The proposed framework informs facility managers, and the BIM-enabled FM implementation process. Further, the holistic survey identifies gaps in the body of knowledge, revealing avenues for future research.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 583-599
Author(s):  
Sahar Hosseinikhah Choshaly

Purpose This paper aims to make use of the innovation diffusion theory to predict the purchase intention for eco-labeled products. Design/methodology/approach Data are collected from 180 individuals in the Mid Valley shopping mall area in Malaysia. It is then analyzed using SPSS and Smart PLS. The measurement model is analyzed using composite reliability, convergent and discriminate validity, while the structural model is used to predict the relationships between variables. Findings Results indicate that the relative advantage, trialability and observability are positively related to eco-labeled products purchase intention, while the complexity is negatively related to eco-labeled products purchase intention. However, compatibility is not positively related to eco-labeled products purchase intention. Practical implications Marketers should enhance the observability of eco-labeled as it is the most influential attribute affecting eco-labeled products purchase intention. Relative advantages of eco-labeled products are also important to stimulate purchase intention. Marketers could best relate the innovation to context-specific use situations enabling consumers to evaluate the use consequences of the innovation, and therefore, may assess its particular benefits. Originality/value It explores the potential of a theoretical framework based on innovation diffusion theory to explain eco-labeled products purchase intention.


2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (1) ◽  
pp. 70-84 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hsiu-Hua Cheng

Purpose Bloggers often create digital content. Diffusion of the creative articles can make many bloggers or readers visit blog platforms. Restated, diffusion of the creative articles can assist blog service providers (BSPs) to retain bloggers and attract new bloggers. Thus, the research is conducted on creative article diffusion on blogs based on innovation diffusion theory and social network theory. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach In this study, an information system was used to collect 250 creative articles and social network data of these creative articles. Validity of the specific study hypotheses is tested by using multi-regression analysis. Findings Analytical results indicate both observability and network density positively affect creative article diffusion, and ties-strength negatively affects creative article diffusion. Research limitations/implications Since the interpersonal interactive mechanism of blogs differs from that of social network websites, bloggers establish different social networks which may influence innovation diffusion. However, different websites may have different interpersonal interactive mechanisms. Therefore, the results of this study should not be over-generalized. Practical implications For diffusing information, BSPs may focus on blog articles with trackback rate below 10 percent among the friends-bloggers network and advertise these articles to make their trackback rate increase to 10-20 percent to reach the self-sustaining status. This strategy ensures the largest payoff from creative article diffusion. Originality/value This study contributes to the knowledge of social network and innovation diffusion on blog website and develops a model explaining how antecedents influence creative article diffusion.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Joel Odhiambo Oyuga ◽  
Abednego Gwaya ◽  
Mugwima Bernard Njuguna

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.


2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 513-534 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Johanson ◽  
Dag Øivind Madsen

Purpose The diffusion of management accounting innovations (MAIs) is the focus of much debate in the management accounting research community. Extant contributions have drawn on a large of number of theories, including innovation diffusion theory and various sociologically inspired theories such as management fashion. The purpose of this paper is to examine and develop Røvik’s virus theory in the context of how MAIs diffuse. The paper further evaluates and elaborates on the potential usefulness of the virus perspective to empirical research on MAIs. Design/methodology/approach The paper uses a conceptual and explorative research approach. The paper introduces the virus perspective and compares this perspective with several other theoretical perspectives often used in studies of the diffusion of MAIs. This enables the identification of characteristics specific to the virus perspective. The paper also re-examines a number of prior studies of MAIs and identifies different virus characteristics implicit in these studies. Findings The findings of the paper imply that the virus perspective is a useful basis for empirical research on MAIs. The virus perspective differs from other theoretical perspectives in several respects and is particularly suited for longitudinal studies of both MAIs and organizational change. However, the perspective could be used at other levels of analysis as well. The extant studies reviewed in this paper provide support for the viral characteristics of MAIs. The paper also identifies and discusses avenues for future research using the virus perspective as a theoretical lens. Originality/value The virus perspective has been given little attention in research on MAIs, as well as more generally within accounting research. This research paper demonstrates that the virus perspective offers a rich and valuable conceptual framework for studying how demand-side organizations are affected by MAIs over extensive periods of time. The paper also discusses the implications of the virus perspective with respect to the research method.


2019 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 537-553 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Mayouf ◽  
Michael Gerges ◽  
Sharon Cox

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the integration of a quantity surveyor (QS) role and practice within the building information modelling (BIM) process to enable better implementation of five-dimensional building information modelling (5D BIM) (D is a result of the data/information dimension integrated in a BIM model). It proposes the use of a “level of development and level of detail” to provide a structured approach for QSs’ integration within the BIM process for an improved implementation of 5D BIM. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses semi-structured interviews with QSs from academic and industry in the UK. A total of 20 face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with two groups (industrial and academic) of ten participants from the West Midlands region in the UK. The interview questions have focussed on gaining perspectives on BIM, BIM and government protocols for the QS profession, expectations and challenges when implementing 5D BIM. Findings The findings show that BIM is perceived differently, and limitation of information obtained from the 3D models in BIM reduce the reliability of 5D BIM for QSs and implementing of 5D BIM needs an understanding of BIM workflow and information requirements. Research limitations/implications Although the findings reveal many of the complexities that face QSs within the BIM process and the shortfalls of 5D BIM technology, the results may lack generalisation. Thus, future research seeks to test the proposed framework further. Practical implications This paper elicits implications of shortfalls that impact the implementation of 5D BIM technology and the complexities that face QSs within the BIM process. Originality/value This paper reveals the need to understand the process of integrating stakeholders and their information requirements for better implementation of technologies within BIM.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 1245-1275
Author(s):  
Dariyoush Jamshidi ◽  
Fazlollah Kazemi

Purpose One of the main challenge when launching new banking services is to overcome resistance to change so as to accelerate market acceptance. This is the case of an Islamic credit card (ICC). Grounded in innovation diffusion theory (IDT) and theory of reasoned action (TRA), this paper aims to study the purposes and empirically tests an integrated model to explore, which factors influence of ICC. Design/methodology/approach Partial least squares and structural equation modeling was used to assess the hypotheses. Accordingly, the empirical results, obtained in a sample of 762 bank customers. Findings Intentions to use of ICC are mostly determined by relative advantage, compatibility, customer awareness, satisfaction and attitude. The combination of IDT and TRA significantly explain the ICC adoption. Originality/value This research has provided a theoretical understanding of the ICC adoption determinants with the intent of promoting a more in-depth understanding of various elements influencing acceptance and usage of this Islamic banking service.


2017 ◽  
Vol 35 (3) ◽  
pp. 264-279 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marwan Mohamed ◽  
Erika Anneli Pärn ◽  
David John Edwards

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present an understanding of the potential impact of Brexit upon the UK construction industry. Specifically, the work analyses the construction industry’s reliance upon European Union (EU) skilled labour and seeks to determine the potential impact that Brexit poses upon EU skilled labour entering the sector. Design/methodology/approach A perceptual questionnaire survey was used to elicit responses from construction professionals using the two techniques of opportunity and snowballing non-probability sampling. Summary statistical analysis of Boolean and Likert item scale data accrued was employed to elucidate upon respondents’ perceptions. Findings The majority of survey participants either “strongly agreed” or “agreed” that the UK construction industry relies upon EU skilled labour and that a career in the sector would not be attractive for foreign skilled labour post-Brexit. Future research proposed includes: predicting future trends in labour supply and demand and deriving new policies to address skills shortage imbalances that may be created by Brexit. Originality/value Original insight into an historic and unprecedented moment for the UK construction industry is presented. The work also provides pragmatic recommendations to policy makers and Higher Education Institutes to prevent the risk of Brexit further exacerbating skilled labour shortages within the industry.


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