Challenges of BIM Implementation in a Local Built Environment: A Multi-Stakeholder Case Analysis in Poznan, Poland

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) offers transformative life-cycle benefits, such as improving multi-disciplinary coordination and data-driven decision making. It is evident that the status of local BIM implementation is fragmented and formalized national framework is absent. This study investigates the different barriers the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) companies faces within the local BIM ecosystem specifically to Poznan city. The research applies a qualitative multi-case research design, by considering four target organizations: level-1 contractor, a cloud-based solution provider, a specialized precast SME, and a design-build general contractor. 20 semi-structured interviews carried out to strengthen empirical data analysis with diverse industry stakeholders, integrated with review of internal company documents (including BIM Execution Plan (BEP) and change logs) and on-site observations complimented with triangulation mechanism to ensure data validity. Systematic thematic coding distilled twenty distinct operational challenges into six socio-technical themes: uneven foundational skillset, inconsistent life-cycle utilization, technical and infrastructure limitations, lack of strategic management support, poor organizational workflow, and inadequate training practices. The empirical findings explicitly show that there is a considerable challenge regarding software interoperability and achieving the ISO 19650 standard with a complete omission of information manager appointment in some cases. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of process thinking. Successful digital transformation does not happen overnight, instead it requires institutional shift circulating robust information governance, standardized BIM Execution Plans, and legally binding data protocols. These findings will help in the development of strategic framework for institutional leaders, policy-makers, and academic personals in mid-sized and developing European construction hubs.