A comparative case study of coordination mechanisms in design and build BIM-based projects in the Netherlands

Abstract

BIM implementation can affect the project coordination mechanisms in unexpected ways, even in widely-applied project procurement structures. Apart from the chosen procurement approach, the BIM technology and the distribution of roles in the project team influence and shape the project coordination. This paper aims to explore the emerging coordination structures and processes from BIM implementation in design-build procurement. An exploratory comparative case study has been undertaken. The findings included two main coordination mechanisms: a centralized and decentralized structure and a hierarchical versus participative decision-making processes. These two patterns subsequently open a debate..