Utilization Assessment on Building Information Modelling (BIM) In Ethiopia, A Case Study in Addis Ababa

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) Has Emerged As A Transformative Collaboration Process In The Global Construction Industry, Enabling Enhanced Spatial Planning, Design Accuracy, Construction Efficiency, And Facility Management. When Effectively Implemented, BIM Mitigates Communication Barriers, Fosters Shared Knowledge, And Serves As A Reliable Decision-Making Tool Throughout A Project?�?S Lifecycle. Despite Its Global Adoption, BIM Utilization In Ethiopia?�?S Construction Sector Remains Young, With Slow Uptake Attributed To Limited Awareness, High Implementation Costs, And Insufficient Technical Expertise. This Study Evaluates The Current Status Of BIM Adoption In Ethiopia, Focusing On Awareness Levels, Practical Applications, And Key Challenges. A Field Survey Was Conducted In Addis Ababa Using Structured Questionnaires Distributed Via Stratified Random Sampling To Construction Industry Stakeholders. Findings Reveal That While Professionals Demonstrate Awareness Of BIM, Its Application Is Predominantly Restricted To Design Phases, Hindered By Low Client Demand, Financial Constraints, And Limited Software Proficiency. The Study Underscores The Need For Policy Interventions To Promote BIM Integration, Including Workforce Training, Government-Led Initiatives, And Academic Curriculum Enhancements. The BIM Integration Framework In Addis Ababa Emphasizes Assessing Existing Buildings, Collecting Accurate Data Using Advanced Tools Like 3D Laser Scanning And GIS, And Creating As-Built BIM Models For Lifecycle Management. These Digital Twins Will Be Integrated With Facility Management Systems To Enable Real-Time Monitoring, Efficient Maintenance, And Sustainable Retrofitting Through Energy Modeling. Capacity-Building Programs, Supportive Policies, And Pilot Projects Support Scalability, Aiming To Expand BIM?�?S Impact Through Initiatives Like City-Wide Digital Twins And Public-Private Partnerships. Recommendations Emphasize Raising Awareness Among Construction Firms And Advocating For Public-Sector Mandates To Accelerate BIM Adoption.