Collaboration in building information modelling: an application of gaming theory

There is vitally significant evidence to show that certain indices of project performance in construction are vulnerable to fragmentation of design, procurement, construction and operations' processes. Some studies have argued that fragmented processes often weaken frameworks for sustaining objectivity and value integration between project stakeholders. This situation is responsive to effective communication, collaboration, thorough integration and passion for objectivity in data sharing and information management between key players. Three Game Theory models (Prisoner's dilemma, pareto optima an4 hawk-dove) are used (and herein reported) to mirror certain implications of players' actions in BIM environment. Players' actions in BIM are categorized as null, partial and full cooperation to engage the ethos of integration in BIM. These model scenarios are argued to show that when BIM is partially adopted, benefit is relative to compliance with principles and drivers of positive outcomes - i.e. the party that complies with certain fundamental principles will benefits more than partially complaint parties, while the non-compliant party looses. However, when BIM is fully adopted, all parties benefit more than when BIM is either partially adopted or not adopted at all. Conclusions are drawn on the implications of adopting and deploying BIM in the industry - BIM means a lot to the industry; there could be tragic consequences when the industry fails to adopt BIM and allied innovations in the era when digital technology is revolutionising other industries. Recommendations are made on areas of further research.