A data model for integrating BIM and blockchain to enable a single source of truth for the construction supply chain data delivery
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management
ISSN: 0969-9988
Article publication date: 30 June 2022
Issue publication date: 28 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
Despite a large amount of BIM data at the handover stage, it is still difficult to identify and effectively isolate valuable construction supply chain (CSC) data that need to be reliably handed over for operation. Moreover, the role of reconciling disparate data is usually played by one party. The integration of blockchain and BIM is a plausible framework for building a reliable digital asset lifecycle. This paper proposes a BIM single source of truth (BIMSSoT) data model using blockchain for ensuring a reliable CSC data delivery.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper utilises a blended methodology, the foundation of which is ingrained in business and management research with elements of information and communication technology (ICT) research wherever required. Knowledge elicitation case studies utilising novel interventions such as a data flow diagram (DFD), taxonomy and entity-relationship diagram (ERD) were used in this paper to develop the BIMSSoT data model. The model was validated using an expert forum, and its technological feasibility was established by developing a proof of concept.
Findings
The practical contribution of this research leads to the progression of BIM towards digital engineering to go beyond object-based 3D modelling by building structured and reliable datasets, transitioning from project-centric records to a digital ecosystem of linked databases by utilizing blockchain's potential for ensuring trusted data.
Originality/value
To the best of the author's knowledge, prior to this paper, no research had investigated a detailed data model development leveraging blockchain and BIM to integrate an immutable and complete record of CSC data as another dimension of BIM for operations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge that this research is fully funded by the Centre for Smart Modern Construction under the School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment at Western Sydney University.
Citation
Hijazi, A.A., Perera, S., Calheiros, R.N. and Alashwal, A. (2023), "A data model for integrating BIM and blockchain to enable a single source of truth for the construction supply chain data delivery", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 30 No. 10, pp. 4645-4664. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0209
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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