ENHANCING PRODUCTIVITY BY USING BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING APPLICATIONS IN PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a technology and associated set of processes to produce, communicate, and analyze building models. BIM is a new concept within the construction industry. The objective of this thesis is to utilize BIM in pipeline construction projects as one of the pioneering steps to reduce rework and delays due to unforeseen conditions. This thesis presents evaluation and recommendations to help pipeline construction industry’s transition from traditional two-dimensional drawings to a BIM management process aiding owners and contractors to develop and implement a basic form of BIM technique to manage their projects. This thesis uses two pipeline construction projects in the Cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, as case studies. These case studies are used to assess and evaluate the effects of applying a supplemental 4-D modeling techniques to enhance the pipeline project’s coordination and productivity by minimizing rework and delays due to unforeseen conditions. Some companies may initially consider the costs associated with BIM software licensing and personnel training to be high. However, this thesis concludes that development of a supplemental four dimensional model as simpler and more manageable alternatives in implementing a fully integrated BIM program is practical and cost effective.