Stimulating BIM-related supplier innovations in infrastructure projects

Building information modelling (BIM) is a paradigm shift in the construction industry that transforms processes to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness. There is an increasing need for rapid development of BIM, and no organisation can do it alone, and innovation collaboration with suppliers and other external organisations is an important means to complement an organisation's knowledge base. The aim of this study is to explore how BIM-related supplier innovations can by stimulated by a public owner in infrastructure projects. Specifically, the study looks for the role of procurement in innovation. The study utilises an in-depth embedded single-case study method with 21 thematic interviews. The study applies 'innovation catalysts' identified in previous research projects as a frame of reference to identify different tactics the public owner can introduce to influence antecedents for innovation. The results of this study show that, to date, the public client's efforts to enhance BIM-related innovations has been acknowledged by suppliers. However, the results have not always been satisfactory. The results of this study suggest the probability of BIM-related supplier innovations can be increased by systematically implementing the innovation catalysts. Reciprocal, long-term, and cross-project collaboration activities are needed at different levels of the overall project organisation and within the industry, and the consistency in communication and activities needs to be ensured throughout the organisation. The incentives and requirements included in the procurement documents are suggested to be a secondary tool to promote supplier innovation, after (other) antecedents for innovations are in place.