Developing an Interactive Model to Integrate Human Expertise with Building Information Modeling

Considering the significant amount of time and money wasted yearly in fixing errors caused by miscommunication and inadequate information on project sites, relaying the knowledge of field experts through design software may reduce communication-based conflicts in projects. This study aimed to create a model to integrate human field expertise in the construction process with building information modeling (BIM) software. This study is based on the premise of the significance of human involvement in construction. Basement construction in Fargo, North Dakota, was the construction scenario selected for scrutiny in this study. Surveys and in-person interviews were conducted with local contractors to ascertain valuable recommendations and views on basement construction in Fargo. Information from these contractors was coded into models to offer warnings and recommendations on the assessed basement construction activities to help architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals with design, planning, and other processes required before and during construction. Combining BIM (with all its proven strengths) with the human aspect of construction will significantly improve the construction process, especially in decision-making and risk mitigation.