The Development of a Lean Digital Construction (BIM) innovation framework for Irish Construction SMEs

The adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must overcome several challenges to succeed. Potential barriers include the need for financial resources, correct BIM guidance, and training. In recent years, SME organisations have investigated how the complementary application of BIM and Lean principles can maximise digital construction practices. For this approach to be successful, structured guidance is paramount. This paper presents the results from an extensive literature review that explores BIM and Lean capabilities, focusing on synergies and existing frameworks. Based on the results from the literature review, the paper suggests an experimental framework that will address the key obstacles and provide a structured approach to BIM and Lean implementation for SMEs. The authors envision that the output of the proposed framework will assist Irish SMEs in minimising waste and improving productivity within their practices.