Standardization Beyond Compliance : A Study on BIM Standardization in the Swedish AEC Industry from a Contractor’s Perspective

Sammanfattning: BIM Standardization holds significant importance within the AEC industry and contractors serve as one of the primary users of standards. This thesis undertakes an exploration of the incentives that drive contractors toward BIM standardization. The research employed semi-structured interviews as the principal means of data acquisition, based on their adaptability in examining intricate matters and extracting comprehensive insights from individuals operating within the Swedish construction sector. Respondents were carefully chosen from the Swedish AEC industry, with a particular focus on contractors and experts engaged in BIM, digitalization, and standardization. The interviews were designed to elicit valuable perspectives regarding the establishment of motivations for contractors regarding BIM standardization. This study's findings offer a comprehensive understanding of standardization in the Swedish AEC industry for contractors. Key insights include the need to bridge the gap between theoretical standards and practical implementation, how standards can address challenges in requirement management, communication, and technology. Contractors' role in driving digitalization and the significance of project delivery methods were also highlighted. The findings emphasize the importance of practical implementation, effective communication, technological advancements, information coordination, and appropriate project delivery methods for successful standardization. This study concludes that involving contractors in the standard development process helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. Addressing challenges in requirements management for the client, requires stakeholder involvement, cultural shift, and automatization relating it back to standardization. The choice of project delivery method may influence BIM standardization with proper collaboration and information coordination being crucial. Standards can empower contractors to drive digitalization forwards in the industry, leading to increased efficiency and innovation.