Digitalized Document Management System for Construction Claims and Disputes to Enhance the Smoothness of Advanced Construction Projects Using the Building Information Modeling Integrated Framework

Abstract

The escalating complexity of conventional construction’s claim document management systems (CDMSs), characterized by intricate and improper documentation, demonstration, knowledge, claim generation process, correspondence, and inadequate records and resources, has heightened the likelihood of disputes and conflicting interpretations within the construction industry. Moreover, the manual nature of inputting, retrieving, analyzing, and disseminating claim results consumes valuable time and resources. Moreover, many claim requests often face disapproval due to insufficient evidence. Besides the adverse impact, manual and improper approaches to CDMSs cause cost and time overruns and conflict, which lead to disputes and have become an inherent aspect of construction projects. The intricate scenario underscores the pressing need for construction organizations to have a streamlined and efficient CDMS to mitigate the construction industry’s challenges. This study proposes a building information modeling (BIM) approach to streamline construction CDMS and address challenges. The main focuses of the study include (1) identifying challenges in the disruption of the construction CDMS in various claim events; and (2) developing a claim management platform (CMP) utilizing BIM, known as CMP-BIM [this platform was developed using the application programming interface (API) with a dedicated plugin in Autodesk Revit (BIM platform), aimed at facilitating efficient claims and disputes management and implementation in construction projects]; (3) conducting evaluation with construction experts to assess the developed model for its effectiveness within the context of a construction project; and (4) discerning impediments to adopting CMP-BIM. In pursuit of the research objectives, the challenges inherent in the construction of CDMS were conscientiously examined. Subsequently, the issues were addressed by meticulously developing a prototype using an API plugin within the BIM platform. The present goal of the study is to develop a digitalized CDMS and standard process for construction claims and disputes to enhance the smoothness of advanced construction projects and overcome challenges using the BIM-integrated framework. The developed CDMS, which utilizes BIM, called CMP-BIM, offers a practical solution for the construction industry’s challenges. Throughout the project life cycle, CMP-BIM is a centralized platform for documenting and managing all claim-related information. For instance, when a claim event arises due to changes, delays, and other events, stakeholders can directly input relevant data into the CMP-BIM. The platform automatically categorizes and organizes this information, ensuring proper documentation and demonstration. During the claim generation process, CMP-BIM provides templates and guidelines based on industry standards, helping users create comprehensive and well-supported claims. When a claim is disputed, CMP-BIM allows for efficient retrieval and analysis of evidence, including three-dimensional (3D) models, construction schedules, and correspondence records. This comprehensive approach minimizes the likelihood of disapproval due to insufficient evidence during the appeal process and ensures smooth implementation within construction projects, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. By digitizing and standardizing processes, CMP-BIM helps mitigate disputes, reduce cost and time overruns, and improve the overall smoothness of advanced construction projects.