Evaluation of the Factors Influencing the Intention-To-Use Bim Among Construction Professionals in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Purpose: This paper evaluated the factors influencing the intention to use BIM among construction professionals in Abuja with the view to understanding the variables that influence BIM adoption in Nigeria. Design/Methodology/Approach: A questionnaire was used as part of the study’s quantitative research strategy. The population of the study included construction professionals registered with Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) which is 4,195. To determine the sample size for the investigation, the Kothari sample size calculation was used (352 professionals). Cronbach’s Alpha reliability testing was done prior to analysis, and the resultant coefficient (0.784) shows that the data gathering tool was reliable. The mean item score was used to examine the obtained data. Using the UTAUT constructs and the one-sample t-test, the mean score was used to rank the factors impacting the intention to utilise BIM. Findings: The study assessed the factors influencing the intention of using BIM among construction professionals in Nigeria using the UTAUT constructs as a yardstick. Mean item score was used to rank the identified variables from the literature review that influence the intention-to-use BIM. The highly ranked variables in each of the constructs include; Facilitating Conditions (“My clients have an interest in the use of BIM”), Performance Expectancy (“Using BIM is of benefit to me”), Effort Expectancy (“I do not have difficulty in explaining why using BIM may be beneficial”), Social Influence (“People who are important to me (e.g. family, friends) think that I should use BIM”). Additionally, using the one-sample t-test value of 3.5, the results showed that respondents believed all of the proposed solutions to be statistically significant (p < 0.05).This shows that the constructs in the research model have a huge impact on BIM adoption which is the main dependent construct. Research Limitation/ Implications: Inability to reach all the thirty-six (36) states in Nigeria would affect the generalization of the study and it is also anticipated that some knowledgeable construction professionals would be reluctant to fill the questionnaire due to to work engagement and other personal reasons. Practical Implication: Complete adoption of BIM by few number of professionals may practically increase the number of unemployment in the built environment/construction sector. Originality/Value: This study is the first in Nigeria to explore the behavioural intention of construction professionals using the UTAUT model and include critical variables that influence BIM adoption.This study would serve as a theoretical foundation for future studies and as well assist construction industry stakeholders to develop appropriate policies to improve BIM adoption in Nigeria.