Comparison of the Barriers to BIM Adoption and Digital Transformation within the Construction Industry of Pakistan and Ireland

This study examines the challenges hindering the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Pakistan's construction industry and compares such challenges with those facing the construction industry in Ireland. The focus is on lessons learned from Ireland’s BIM journey, which commenced in earnest with the establishment of the Irish National BIM Council (NBC) in 2016, and continues through to the current initiative known as the Build Digital Project (2022-2026). The implications of such initiatives are considered in terms of addressing the challenges in driving the digital transformation of the Irish construction and built environment sector, promoting a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable industry. Insights relevant to Pakistan’s construction industry were established through a review of literature and a survey of experienced professionals. Results show that a lack of education and training, as well as low levels of awareness of BIM benefits, were identified as the most significant barriers to BIM adoption in Pakistan’s construction sector, whereas in Ireland, lack of client awareness, and lack of standardisation are the most significant barriers along with the aging of Irish workforce and the availability of new graduates. These findings offer valuable insights for academics, professionals, and policymakers seeking to understand and support the digital transformation of the construction industry.