BIM-Based Management Integration in Tertiary Institution Construction Projects in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates Building Information Modelling (BIM) integration in TETFUND-sponsored construction projects across 12 federal tertiary institutions in- Southwest Nigeria, comprising 6 Federal Universities and 6 Federal Polytechnics. Using a census survey of 162 construction professionals (90% response rate from 180), including engineers, builders, architects, quantity surveyors, and estate managers, the research examines BIM integration levels, barriers, project outcomes, transparency, and comparisons with traditional methods. Quantitative analyses, including descriptive statistics, ANOVA, principal component analysis (PCA), t-tests, and Cronbach’s Alpha (α = 0.76–0.90), reveal moderate BIM adoption (M = 3.47), strongest in design (M = 3.92) but weak in facility management (M = 3.32) and training (M = 2.87). Universities significantly outscore polytechnics (t(160) = 2.06, p = 0.041). Key barriers include lack of trained professionals (M = 4.44), insufficient training (M = 4.30), and high costs (M = 4.22), with PCA identifying Skills & Training, Policy & Governance, and Culture & Collaboration (72% variance). BIM enhances project quality (M = 4.43), efficiency (M = 4.40), and transparency (M = 4.29) through real-time monitoring (M = 4.42), with universities showing a non-significant advantage in transparency (p = 0.089). BIM outperforms traditional methods in transparency (M = 4.37) and delay reduction (M = 4.32), supporting a hybrid approach for small projects (M = 3.87). Recommendations include TETFUND-funded training, subsidized BIM tools, infrastructure investment, and policy mandates. The study contributes a validated barrier model, a BIM Impact Index (M = 4.37), and a transparency framework, advancing Nigeria’s construction sector knowledge.