Constructing Dispute Scenarios in Building Information Modeling

Abstract

Somehow, disputes are inevitable in the construction industry. Rather than being carried away by the psychological nuances that are associated with relational strains in disputes, construction literature contains a wealth of knowledge on how to make the best of adversarial relationships. Disputes may be undesirable, but having appropriate knowledge on how to manage disputes often leads to better outcomes for both the disputants and the project. To achieve this, contract parties have had to limit uncertain circumstances around project environments and dispute causatives. They must also be prepared to solve them before they occur or immediately after their occurrence. The aim of this study is to use chaos theory to explain the nature of interdependencies in building information modeling (BIM). From this, dispute scenarios are developed such that their resolution frameworks are made clearer. The scenarios were validated with a review of court decisions on cases that are similar to those illustrated in the scenarios. In the end, conclusions are drawn on areas for further research.