The electrical construction industry traditionally relies on 2D/3D drawings to layout, design, estimate, and install power and communication systems in building facilities. With the advent of Building Information Modeling (BIM), electrical contractors have begun to experience its potential benefits. However, the scale of BIM adoptability in the U.S. electrical construction industry and its impact on electrical design and construction are still unknown. Keeping these objectives in mind, this research study was carried out with the support of National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), USA. A questionnaire survey targeted at NECA members was conducted to collect the necessary data. The results indicated that about 20% of the companies, who participated in this research study, are using BIM technology in their projects. Most of these companies are medium to large size in terms of annual revenues. These companies are mostly using BIM technology for clash detections, visualization of electrical design, space utilization, and partial trade coordination in commercial and healthcare projects. The majority of participants reported some-to-significant cost and time savings and quality improvements. The most common reasons for not using BIM were found to be lack of BIM knowledge and technological experience, software compatibility issues and high initial investment costs.

 If you found this report useful, please help us continue our mission by contributing to ELECTRI:

Click here to contribute to ELECTRI International