Building Information Modelling: an Innovative Way to Manage Risk in Construction Projects

Background. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been recently one of the most common issues discussed in publications related to innovative changes in the management of construction projects. The concept of BIM integrates all the activities related to the design, construction and operation into the ICT model developed and implemented within a communication platform. From the point of view of the project management theory and construction practice, the area of interest is integrated risk and change management based on BIM. Negative consequences such as delays and financial losses that are detrimental especially to public projects conducted by investors raise a question of whether and how implementation of principles of BIM in project management can improve management activities associated with risk in construction projects. Research aims. This paper aims to gain insight into the current state of knowledge about risk and change management in construction projects in terms of BIM implementation, and to set the direction for further research as well as to determine further research objectives related to this issue. Methodology. The arguments presented in this paper are based on the analysis of reference literature. Key findings: Risk is an issue in the concept of BIM that still needs to be systematized. It is necessary to develop an optimal way to integrate procedures, methods and techniques of risk management with other management actions within BIM. Change is perceived as one of the major risk factors and therefore the inclusion of change management processes into this system also requires the establishment of standards and methodical approach within BIM. Further research in this area should include past experience in the implementation of BIM in construction projects, the presence of risk-related procedures in this process and conditions of effective integration of management actions. From a practical point of view, it is also necessary to explore the willingness of entrepreneurs and investors to implement BIM, understood as a platform for communication, risk and change management as well as an optimal method for a systematized implementation of this process.