Bridging the Digital Divide: A Comparative Study of BIM Perceptions Among Clients, Contractors and Professionals in South Africa

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Zama Thusi and Ntebo Ngozwana

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Keywords: Building Information Modelling, Digital Transformation, Construction Industry, Stakeholder Perceptions, Policy

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

This paper investigates stakeholder perceptions, readiness, and barriers to BIM adoption among professionals, contractors, and clients in South Africa, with implications for a national digital transformation policy.

DESIGN / METHODOLOGY / APPROACH

A comparative survey methodology was used, with structured questionnaires administered to 171 professionals, 106 contractors, and 61 clients. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed to extract stakeholder-specific insights.

FINDINGS

The study found high BIM awareness among professionals, moderate awareness among contractors, and low awareness among clients. Usage was highest among professionals and lowest among clients. Key barriers included limited client demand, skills shortages, and lack of policy direction.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS / IMPLICATIONS

The study is cross-sectional and does not track longitudinal changes. Future research should assess policy impacts, training outcomes, and readiness for integrating BIM with Construction 5.0 technologies.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Findings support the need for a national BIM policy, SAQA/CETA-aligned frameworks, client capacity-building, and demonstration projects to drive inclusive digital adoption.

VALUE

This paper offers the first national comparative BIM readiness study across South African stakeholder groups and proposes actionable policy and capacity-building recommendations.

CONTRIBUTION TO THEME

The paper advances the Construction 5.0 conversation by addressing the socio-technical divide and proposing systemic reforms to enable sustainable, human-centered digital transformation.