Enabling Digital Transformation in Construction: A Framework for Integrating BIM and VR in Early Design Phases

Abstract

Integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Reality (VR) has transformative potential to enhance communication among stakeholders in the early design phases of construction projects. However, architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) firms still encounter significant challenges, including high initial investment costs, software interoperability limitations, fragmented data workflows, and insufficient workforce training programs.

This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify and analyze the most critical barriers to BIM-VR adoption. Based on these insights, this research develops a comprehensive framework to mitigate these challenges and facilitate the practical, scalable integration of BIM-VR in construction projects. The framework outlines key strategies and best practices, ensuring digital innovations are accessible even to firms with limited resources.

This research contributes to advancing digital construction methodologies, improving industry-wide efficiency, and facilitating the seamless adoption of BIM-VR technologies in real-world projects by providing a structured and actionable approach to overcoming BIM-VR implementation barriers. The findings offer significant implications for academia and industry, fostering more cost-effective, collaborative, and technologically advanced construction practices