Life-cycle cost calculations supported by Building Information Modelling software - Unrealised potential

Use of life-cycle costing (LCC) is a highly relevant method for determination of best value investment. LCC requires increased information compared to traditional building cost calculations. Use of building information modelling (BIM) based software should therefore lead to a high increase in LCC calculations for every project. However, this is not the case. The purpose of this study is to understand why BIM-based LCC calculations are not used more often. Integrated design and delivery solutions (IDDS) from CIB are used as a framework to explore practical use of LCC. IDDS focus on collaborating people, integrated processes and interoperable technology. This study is based on a combination of exploring BIM-based software, literature review and semi structured interviews with relevant stakeholders in building and civil engineering projects. The study identifies a gap between the process, the people, and the technology. Increased use of LCC calculations would benefit from increased integration rather than development of separate factors. IDDS has proven to be useful in understanding factors involved in practical use of BIM-based LCC calculations.