Leveraging BIM for Proactive Dispute Avoidance in Construction Projects

Abstract

The construction industry faces persistent challenges from disputes and claims, leading to delays, cost overruns, and strained stakeholder relationships. This study proposes a strategic framework that integrates building information modeling (BIM) as a proactive tool for dispute avoidance. Using a causal loop diagram (CLD), the research maps the relationships among systemic factors contributing to disputes, such as poor communication, ambiguous specifications, and ineffective stakeholder engagement. The study highlights BIM’s transformative potential in enhancing visualization, improving collaboration, and fostering proactive conflict resolution. Validated through expert insights, the framework provides actionable recommendations for integrating BIM (with ISO19650 specs) into construction workflows, addressing the root causes of disputes, and driving project efficiency. This research contributes a structured roadmap for advancing construction management practices, emphasizing early BIM adoption considered with ISO19650, stakeholder alignment, and balancing systemic dynamics. The findings underscore BIM’s pivotal role in reshaping conflict prevention strategies, paving the way for sustainable and dispute-free project delivery.

1. Introduction

The construction industry is inherently complex, involving multifaceted projects, diverse stakeholders, and numerous potential sources of conflict. Disputes frequently arise due to contractual ambiguities, miscommunication, and scope changes, often leading to delays, increased costs, and strained relationships among stakeholders. These challenges highlight the pressing need for effective strategies prioritizing dispute avoidance to improve project outcomes. The unique characteristics of construction projects, such as the involvement of multiple parties, intricate contractual arrangements, and the dynamic nature of execution, make disputes an ever-present risk. Studies have shown that misunderstandings related to contract terms, scope adjustments, and project management failures account for a significant proportion of disputes. According to the Construction Industry Institute (CII), disputes can inflate project costs by up to 20% and extend timelines by as much as 30%, underscoring the critical importance of proactive conflict prevention strategies.

Building information modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative solution for addressing these challenges. By integrating design, construction, and operational data into a unified framework, BIM enhances communication, visualization, and collaboration among stakeholders, offering a proactive means to minimize disputes before they arise. This study explores how BIM with ISO 19650 specs [1] can be strategically applied to mitigate the root causes of disputes, aligning technological innovation with proactive conflict prevention strategies. Beyond reducing disputes and improving project delivery, the research emphasizes the broader potential of BIM to foster collaboration, streamline project management, and create a more efficient construction environment. By providing a structured approach to integrating BIM with practical dispute avoidance measures, this study aims to advance the field of construction management and contribute to the industry’s long-term sustainability. This study aims to (1) identify key systemic factors leading to disputes in construction projects; (2) develop a BIM-based framework integrated with ISO 19650 for proactive dispute avoidance; and (3) validate the framework using CLDs and expert insights.

2. Literature Review

Further emphasizing this issue, Mason et al. (2015) [2] argue that communication breakdowns between project participants can exacerbate misunderstandings, leading to conflicts that could otherwise be avoided with improved information flow. In response to these challenges, building information modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative technology within the construction industry, offering a digital framework that integrates various aspects of project management. BIM enhances visualization, enabling stakeholders to comprehend projects more effectively through 3D models. This visual clarity significantly mitigates miscommunication and errors typically associated with traditional 2D drawings. Eastman et al. (2011) [3] assert that BIM not only improves design accuracy, but also fosters collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors by providing a unified platform for information sharing.

The application of BIM in dispute resolution has garnered increased attention in the recent literature. Huang and Kalia (2015) [4] discuss how BIM can be employed for proactive conflict resolution by facilitating the early identification of potential design clashes and construction issues. Their study illustrates that utilizing clash detection tools within BIM allows teams to address problems before they escalate into disputes, thereby conserving both time and resources. Additionally, Barlish and Sullivan (2012) [5] underscore the significance of BIM in enhancing communication flow, which is crucial for dispute avoidance. Their findings suggest that projects that leverage BIM report fewer disputes due to the improved clarity and accessibility of project information.

Qualitative insights from industry experts further corroborate the advantages of BIM in facilitating proactive dispute avoidance. Smith (2018) [6] conducted interviews with BIM managers and construction professionals, revealing that the successful implementation of BIM is contingent upon effective training and stakeholder engagement. Experts emphasized that when all parties are proficient in utilizing BIM tools, the likelihood of disputes diminishes significantly. Furthermore, the establishment of clear protocols for information sharing and communication is critical, as these factors ensure that all stakeholders remain aligned throughout the project.

Cheung et al. (2006) [7] highlight that contractual ambiguities and misinterpretations are among the primary sources of conflict. Their research indicates that a substantial percentage of disputes stem from unclear contract terms and insufficiently detailed project specifications. This lack of clarity often leads to differing interpretations among stakeholders, resulting in misunderstandings that can escalate into significant conflicts. Similarly, the findings of Mason et al. (2015) [2] emphasize that communication breakdowns between project participants can exacerbate misunderstandings, leading to conflicts that could otherwise be avoided with improved information flow. Effective communication is crucial in coordinating efforts among various stakeholders, and its absence can lead to complications that hinder project progress.

In light of these challenges, building information modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative technology within the construction industry, offering a digital framework that integrates various aspects of project management. BIM enhances visualization, enabling stakeholders to comprehend project smore effectively through 3D models. This visual clarity significantly mitigates the miscommunication and errors typically associated with traditional 2D drawings. Eastman et al. (2011) [3] assert that BIM not only improves design accuracy, but also fosters collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors by providing a unified platform for information sharing. By integrating design, construction, and operational data, BIM creates a comprehensive view of a project, facilitating better decision making and reducing the likelihood of disputes.

The application of BIM in dispute resolution has garnered increased attention in the recent literature. Huang and Kalia (2015) [4] discuss how BIM can be employed for proactive conflict resolution by facilitating the early identification of potential design clashes and construction issues. Their study illustrates that utilizing clash detection tools within BIM allows teams to address problems before they escalate into disputes, thereby conserving both time and resources. In addition, Barlish and Sullivan (2012) [5] underscore the significance of BIM in enhancing communication flow, which is crucial for dispute avoidance. Their findings suggest that projects that leverage BIM report fewer disputes due to the improved clarity and accessibility of project information. This enhanced communication promotes a culture of transparency, wherein stakeholders are more likely to share concerns and collaborate on solutions.

Qualitative insights from industry experts further corroborate the advantages of BIM in facilitating proactive dispute avoidance. Smith (2018) [6] conducted interviews with BIM managers and construction professionals, revealing that the successful implementation of BIM is contingent upon effective training and stakeholder engagement. Experts emphasized that when all parties are proficient in utilizing BIM tools, the likelihood of disputes diminishes significantly. This proficiency enables stakeholders to navigate complex project dynamics more effectively, fostering an environment where potential conflicts can be identified and resolved early in the process.

Moreover, the establishment of clear protocols for information sharing and communication is critical, as these factors ensure that all stakeholders remain aligned throughout the project. The importance of training and continuous learning in the effective use of BIM cannot be overstated. Research by Azhar et al. (2012) [8] indicates that organizations that invest in comprehensive training programs for their personnel experience greater success in BIM adoption and implementation. This investment not only enhances the skills of the workforce, but also builds a culture of collaboration and innovation within the organization.

In addition to enhancing communication and collaboration, BIM also supports improved project management practices. Kiviniemi et al. (2016) [9] highlight that the integration of BIM into project workflows can lead to more efficient resource allocation and scheduling. By providing real-time data and analytics, BIM allows project managers to make informed decisions that optimize project performance and minimize disruptions. This capability is particularly valuable in large, complex projects where multiple stakeholders are involved, as it enables the better coordination and alignment of efforts.

Furthermore, the use of BIM can facilitate stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle. Tzortzopoulos and Kagioglou (2009) [10] argue that involving stakeholders early in the design process through BIM can lead to improved project outcomes. By allowing stakeholders to visualize a project and provide input during the planning stages, organizations can ensure that the final product meets the needs and expectations of all parties involved. Finally, as highlighted by Karaz, M., Teixeira, J.M.C., and Amaral, T.G.D. (2024) [11], causal loop diagrams (CLDs) not only help visualize systemic relationships but also serve as foundational tools for validating the interconnections between variables and identifying potential gaps or inconsistencies in system behavior.In recent years, the role of digital tools in proactive dispute management has gained increasing attention. A 2024 study by Muluken, Haaskjold, and Hussein [12] presents a systematic review of digital technologies for mitigating contractual disagreements in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. This research emphasizes the synergy between BIM and other advanced tools, such as digital twins, Common Data Environments (CDEs), and cloud-based coordination platforms, highlighting their collective potential in improving collaboration and transparency across project lifecycles. The study concludes that these technologies—when embedded in early planning and stakeholder engagement—can significantly reduce the likelihood of disputes. These findings reinforce the current study’s emphasis on BIM’s integrative role, especially when aligned with ISO 19650 standards, in promoting real-time communication, early conflict detection, and collaborative decision making. By extending the technological scope of BIM, such digital strategies contribute to a more holistic and effective framework for dispute avoidance.

In conclusion, the literature underscores the critical role of building information modeling in enhancing communication, collaboration, and overall project management within the construction industry. As disputes continue to pose significant challenges, the proactive strategies enabled by BIM offer a pathway toward more effective dispute avoidance and resolution. By fostering better communication, encouraging stakeholder engagement, and improving project management practices, BIM has the potential to transform how construction projects are executed, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.

3. Methodology

To achieve the main objective of this research, a creative and systematic approach was adopted. The process began with identifying the key variables contributing to construction disputes, derived from an extensive review of the previous literature. These variables were then visualized using a causal loop diagram (CLD), which mapped their interrelationships to uncover the underlying dynamics of conflicts. Where necessary, additional data were gathered through one-to-one interviews with experts and further research exploration to ensure that all relevant factors were captured. Once validated, the study pinpointed the most critical factors influencing disputes and integrated them into a customized BIM-based framework. This framework was refined and enriched through insights gained from industry experts, blending theoretical understanding with practical applicability. The study then focused on identifying the most critical variables and integrating them into a tailored BIM-based framework. This framework leveraged BIM’s (within ISO 19650 specs) capabilities in visualization, data integration, and collaboration to address the root causes of disputes. By blending systematic analysis with innovative modeling techniques, this methodology demonstrates how BIM can be strategically applied to revolutionize dispute avoidance in construction projects.

3.1. Mathematical Modeling of BIM System Dynamics

BIM training, BIM Proficiency, Adoption Rate, Initial Cost, Stakeholder Resistance, and Project Performance are the main variables of BIM to derive a dynamic mathematical model from the casual loop diagram (CLD). These variables often interact in feedback loops. To explain this and to satisfy greater adoption, the following sequence must be implemented:

More Training → Higher Proficiency → Better Performance → Encourages more Adoption Or Higher Costs → More Resistance → Lower Adoption

The following section presents a mathematical model derived from a causal loop diagram (CLD) focused on building information modeling (BIM) dynamics. The equations validate the systemic relationships between BIM-related factors such as training, proficiency, cost, resistance, and adoption.

3.2. Identify Typical Systemic Factors in BIM and CLDs

Related to developing system dynamics models from causal loop diagrams and from causal loop diagrams to system dynamics models in a data-rich ecosystem, two types of loops can be used in BIM and CLDs with different variables. The following is a summary of both methods.

3.2.1. Reinforcing Loop: (Training → Proficiency → Adoption)

Many variables can be used in this method, such as the following:

P: BIM proficiency.

T: Training intensity.

α: Effectiveness of training.

β: Proficiency decay over time.

These variables can be implemented in this method related to Equation (1), as follows:

dP/dt = αT − βP

(1)

Also, the BIM adoption rate (A) is influenced by proficiency, as follows:

A: Adoption rate.

γ: Influence of proficiency on adoption.

δ: Resistance or saturation rate.

Also, these variables can be satisfied in the adoption phase, as shown in Equation (2) below.

dA/dt = γP − δA

(2)

3.2.2. Balancing Loop: Cost and Resistance

The main variables in this method are summarized as follows:

R: Stakeholder resistance.

η: Sensitivity to cost.

μ: Mitigating effect of proficiency.

To find the balance loop, we implement Equation (3) with the previous variables.

R = ηC − μP

(3)

Adoption is also negatively affected by resistance in Equation (4), as follows:

dA/dt = γP − δA − θR

(4)

3.3. Empirical Validation (Optional)

For empirical validation using survey or project data, the following regression model can be used, as shown in Equation (5):

A = β₀ + β₁P + β₂C + β₃R + ε

(5)

This model allows one to statistically validate the strength and direction of the relationships hypothesized in the CLD.

4. BIM Dispute Avoidance Factors

The references and data for this study were collected through a comprehensive review of the existing literature, focusing on both theoretical and practical insights on dispute avoidance using building information modeling (BIM) with ISO 19650 specs. Scholarly articles, industry reports, and relevant case studies were analyzed to identify the key variables influencing project outcomes. Based on this analysis, a total of 11 factors were identified and systematically categorized into the following five main groups: BIM Implementation, Communication Clarity, Conflict Detection, Dispute Resolution, and Project Efficiency.

These groups, as illustrated in Figure 1, represent the core dimensions of BIM’s role in proactively addressing disputes and fostering collaboration. Each group comprises specific factors that address critical aspects of construction management. A detailed breakdown of these 11 factors within their respective categories is provided in

Table 1. The detailed breakdown of the main factors within their respective categories into dispute avoidance using building information modeling (BIM).

Category	Factor	Explanation	Reference
BIM IMPLEMENTATION	Increases Communication	Enhances clarity among stakeholders through effective information sharing.	Bryde, D. J., Broquetas, M., and Volm, J. M. (2013) [13]
	Enhances Project Planning	Improves foresight into project phases and potential issues.	Azhar, S. (2011) [8]
	Promotes Collaboration	Encourages teamwork among various parties involved in the project.	Sacks, R., and Barak, R. (2009) [14]
COMMUNICATION CLARITY	Reduces Conflicts	Minimizes disputes arising from miscommunications.	Gledson, B. J., and Greenwood, D. (2013) [15]
	Builds Trust	Encourages a cooperative environment among stakeholders.	Tzortzopoulos, P., and Kagioglou, M. (2009) [10]
	Facilitates Quick Resolution	Enables the prompt addressing of issues.	Clevenger, C. M., and Ozbek, M. E. (2010) [16]
	Increases Awareness	Helps stakeholders become more attuned to potential problems.	Kiviniemi, M., and Fischer, M. (2014) [9]
CONFLICT DETECTION	Supports Timely Intervention	Allows for adjustments before conflicts escalate.	Huang, Z., and Kalia, A. (2015) [4]
	Improves Relationships	Fosters respect and dialogue among parties.	Barish, K., and Sullivan, K. (2012) [5]
	Enhances Project Efficiency	Maintains workflow by addressing conflicts promptly.	Eastman, C., et al. (2011) [3]
DISPUTE RESOLUTION	Strengthens Collaboration	Promotes a culture of teamwork during disputes.	Smith, J. (2018) [6]
	Encourages Learning	Provides opportunities for growth and improvement in strategies.	Muluken, Shibru, et al. (2024) [12]

, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding BIM’s strategic application in minimizing disputes and improving project outcomes.

5. Create a Casual Loop Diagram CLD

Creating a causal loop diagram (CLD) illustrates the relationships between key variables in a system. This research focuses on using a CLD to map how building information modeling (BIM) influences proactive dispute avoidance in construction projects. By visualizing these interactions, the CLD highlights how BIM improves communication, conflict detection, and project efficiency. It also identifies feedback loops, helping stakeholders to understand how BIM reduces disputes and enhances collaboration. For instance, the Expo 2020 Dubai infrastructure projects successfully used BIM for coordination among over 40 stakeholders, reducing design-related disputes by 30% during the execution phase.

5.1. Key Components of the Causal Loop Diagram

Causal loop diagrams (CLDs) are essential tools for visualizing and analyzing feedback structures within complex systems. They provide a clear representation of how variables interact, influencing the overall dynamics of the system. The following are the key components of a CLD.

5.1.1. Variables

Variables are the fundamental elements of the system, representing factors that can change over time. These variables are typically depicted as rectangles in CLDs and can influence one another either positively or negatively. For example, in dispute avoidance using BIM, variables might include Improved Communication, Proactive Issue Recognition, and Efficient Project Management. Variables capture the dynamic nature of the system and are crucial for identifying leverage points for intervention.

5.1.2. Feedback Loops

Feedback loops are central to CLDs, illustrating how variables interact over time. They are categorized as follows:

• Balancing Loops (B): These loops work to stabilize the system by counteracting changes and maintaining equilibrium. For example, when project issues are resolved promptly, disputes are minimized, keeping the system balanced.
• Reinforcing Loops (R): These loops amplify changes, leading to growth or decline. For instance, improved collaboration may lead to better communication, which further enhances teamwork and overall project efficiency.

5.1.3. Arrows with Polarity

Arrows in a CLD indicate the direction of influence between variables, with polarity specifying the nature of the relationship, as follows:

• Positive Polarity (+): Indicates that an increase in one variable leads to an increase in another or a decrease result in a decrease. For example, better visualization in BIM might enhance communication.
• Negative Polarity (−): Indicates that an increase in one variable leads to a decrease in another, or vice versa. For instance, early conflict resolution might reduce project delays.

5.2. Sequential Process of BIM-Driven Improvements

The adoption of BIM initiates a sequential process that enhances project management and dispute avoidance in construction projects. This process demonstrates how BIM influences key aspects of construction workflows and stakeholder relationships, creating a cycle of continuous improvement. The steps in this process are as follows:

• BIM Adoption: The process begins with the adoption of BIM technology, which serves as the foundation for driving positive changes in project management.
• Improved Visualization: BIM enhances visualization capabilities, allowing project elements to be represented in 3D. This helps stakeholders to better understand project details and complexities.
• Improved Communication: Enhanced visualization naturally fosters clearer communication among stakeholders. Everyone can align regarding project expectations, reducing the chances of misinterpretation.
• Reduced Misunderstandings: With better communication, misunderstandings are minimized, addressing one of the primary causes of disputes in construction projects.
• Fewer Disputes: This reduction in misunderstandings leads to fewer disputes, minimizing delays and cost overruns often caused by conflict.
• Enhanced Project Delivery: With fewer disputes, projects are delivered more efficiently, meeting timelines and staying within budgets.
• Improved Relationships: Successful project delivery strengthens relationships among stakeholders. Positive outcomes build trust and foster collaboration, essential for future projects.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Stronger relationships encourage greater engagement from stakeholders. When stakeholders feel valued, they are more likely to contribute positively.
• Early Conflict Identification: Higher engagement allows stakeholders to identify potential conflicts early, enabling the team to address issues before they escalate.
• Proactive Solutions: Early conflict identification facilitates the implementation of proactive solutions, ensuring uninterrupted project momentum.
• Reinforcement of BIM Adoption: The benefits experienced—such as improved communication, fewer disputes, and enhanced project delivery—reinforce the value of BIM, encouraging its continued and expanded use.

5.3. Casual Loop Diagram

Using the mentioned components and sequential process, a CLD was created using system dynamics software (Visual Paradigm Online) to visually represent the interconnections and feedback loops between different factors in a process or system.

5.4. Analysis of Key Feedback Loops

The causal loop diagram (CLD) includes the following four key feedback loops representing the dynamic interactions within the system: two balancing loops and two reinforcing loops. These loops play crucial roles in illustrating how BIM adoption influences dispute avoidance, project efficiency, and stakeholder collaboration, as shown in Figure 2. Below is a detailed analysis of each loop:

5.4.1. Balancing Loop 1 (B1): BIM Adoption

This loop demonstrates the stabilizing effects of BIM adoption on project management. By incorporating BIM, communication among stakeholders improves, leading to more efficient project delivery. Enhanced efficiency shortens completion times, which reduces the need for additional resources and balances the system. This loop highlights how BIM adoption optimizes resource allocation and ensures that projects remain on track.

5.4.2. Balancing Loop 2 (B2): Proactive Problem Solving

This loop focuses on the early identification of potential conflicts and the implementation of proactive solutions. By addressing issues before they escalate, project teams enhance team dynamics and relationships, minimizing misunderstandings. The result is a significant reduction in disputes, improved project management, and more predictable outcomes. This loop demonstrates the importance of proactive strategies in maintaining system stability and minimizing disruptions.

5.4.3. Reinforcing Loop 1 (R1): Stakeholder Engagement

This reinforcing loop emphasizes the role of stakeholder engagement in creating a cycle of continuous improvement. As stakeholders become more involved, relationships strengthen, fostering trust and collaboration. Enhanced engagement encourages further participation and shared responsibility, ultimately contributing to better project outcomes. This loop illustrates how positive stakeholder dynamics can drive long-term project success.

5.4.4. Reinforcing Loop 2 (R2): Information Exchange and Visualization

This loop highlights the amplifying effects of advanced data representation and visualization. BIM’s capabilities improve information exchange and communication, facilitating proactive problem solving. As disputes are reduced and trust is built, system efficiency increases, creating a virtuous cycle of improvement. This loop underscores the transformative power of BIM in enhancing collaboration and reducing inefficiencies.

5.4.5. Summary of Feedback Loops

The balancing loops (B1 and B2) ensure system stability by addressing conflicts and optimizing resource allocation, while the reinforcing loops (R1 and R2) amplify positive outcomes by improving stakeholder collaboration and information sharing. Together, these feedback loops illustrate the interconnected pathways through which BIM adoption drives dispute avoidance, enhances project management, and fosters a culture of collaboration in construction projects.

This analysis demonstrates the critical role of feedback loops in understanding and leveraging BIM’s impact on the construction ecosystem. The insights provided by these loops reinforce the strategic importance of BIM in achieving efficient, dispute-free project outcomes.

5.5. Additional Insights

The additional insights derived from the CLD analysis provide a deeper understanding of how the system operates and ensure the relevance of its feedback loops. These insights are categorized into two main areas, which are Core Themes and Cyclic Dependencies.

5.5.1. Core Themes

The CLD highlights the following three essential themes that underpin the system’s dynamics: Collaboration and Communication, Efficiency, and Technology’s Role. These themes are central to understanding how the system operates and driving improvements across project outcomes. Figure 3 illustrates how these themes are interconnected within the feedback loops, showcasing their influence on dispute avoidance and overall project efficiency.

5.5.2. Cyclic Dependencies

The feedback loops within the CLD reveal significant interdependencies between system elements. For instance, improved communication reduces disputes and strengthens team dynamics, which, in turn, enhances project outcomes. Improved communication with the BIM model depends mainly on the level of detail (LOD) of the model. Level 0 and level 1, called low BIM maturity, will result in a framework that can cause miscommunications, limited collaboration, and more design errors, which lead to more disputes. Intermediate BIM or level 2 BIM maturity helps to share data more easily than the previous level using IFC files and interoperability benefits, which enhances the communication among all parties and minimizes the number of disputes. High BIM maturity (level 3 and up), which is sometimes called full collaboration, with real-time shared data using modern and digital tools, enhances the framework by introducing auto servicing, AI insights, and others to prevent disputes between stakeholders. So, to satisfy communication improvements, BIM platforms must be supported by industry foundation class IFC (open file format to data exchange), COBie data formats, and others to achieve a high level of interoperability and increase data sharing.

These cyclic dependencies underscore the importance of maintaining positive feedback cycles, where improvements in one area reinforce advancements in others, driving overall system efficiency and effectiveness. Technologies such as CDE platforms (e.g., Autodesk BIM 360, Trimble Connect) allow for the real-time sharing of models and data. These tools help to reduce miscommunication and ensure that updates are transparent and traceable among all stakeholders, further minimizing the risk of disputes.

6. Discussion

The CLD provides a structured framework for analyzing the interplay between BIM and dispute avoidance strategies in construction projects. By mapping feedback loops, the diagram illustrates how BIM fosters improved communication, minimizes conflicts, and enhances project efficiency. This section explores the implications of each feedback loop, emphasizes key variables and interdependencies, and highlights practical applications in real-world scenarios.

6.1. Analysis of Feedback Balancing Loops (Stabilizing the System)

6.1.1. BIM Adoption and Completion Time (B1)

The adoption of BIM (within ISO 19650 specs) reduces project inefficiencies by improving design accuracy and coordination. Enhanced project delivery leads to shorter completion times, which stabilize the system by optimizing resource allocation and reducing delays. For example, transportation projects using BIM, such as the UK’s Crossrail, have demonstrated faster design phases due to BIM’s clash detection capabilities.

6.1.2. Proactive Problem Solving (B2)

This loop underscores the importance of early conflict identification and resolution. By addressing potential disputes during the planning or early execution stages, teams can minimize delays and maintain a smooth project momentum.

Practical examples include Agile methodologies in software development, where daily stand-ups proactively address team conflicts, effectively translating this principle into construction.

6.2. Reinforcing Loops (Driving Growth and Improvement)

6.2.1. Stakeholder Engagement Cycle (R1)

Engaging stakeholders fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and encourages active participation, creating a virtuous cycle of collaboration. Investments in time and resources increase as stakeholders perceive value in the process. For instance, frequent updates and the involvement of community leaders in infrastructure projects mitigate potential resistance, ensuring smoother project execution.

6.2.2. Enhanced Information Exchange Cycle (R2)

BIM’s advanced visualization tools amplify understanding and clarity among project participants. Improved communication promotes proactive solutions, reducing disputes and enhancing overall efficiency. For example, healthcare facility designs leveraging 3D BIM models allow architects and medical staff to align their visions early, avoiding costly revisions.

6.3. Critical Pathways Between Loops

The dynamic interactions between loops emphasize BIM’s integrative role in dispute avoidance, as follows:

From BIM Adoption to Project Efficiency: BIM → Advanced Data Representation → Improved Communication → Reduced Misunderstandings → Enhanced Project Management → Efficient Project Delivery.

This sequence demonstrates how BIM transforms workflows by fostering precision and reducing ambiguities.

Conflict Management Path: Early Conflict Identification → Proactive Issue Recognition → Strengthened Team Dynamics → Improved Relationships → Reduced Disputes.

This pathway highlights the human and interpersonal aspects of construction management, ensuring effective collaboration.

Stakeholder Engagement Path: Active Stakeholder Participation → Regular Updates → Strengthened Team Dynamics → Investments in Resources → Conflict Mitigation.

This pathway illustrates the importance of stakeholder alignment in reducing disputes and promoting project success.

6.4. Interdependencies and System Synergies

Analysis reveals critical interdependencies that highlight BIM’s systemic role, as follows:

R1 and R2 (Stakeholder Engagement and Communication): Stakeholder engagement relies on effective communication to avoid chaos. Clear BIM models ensure that stakeholders’ concerns are addressed, fostering trust and alignment.

B1 and B2 (BIM Adoption and Proactive Problem Solving): BIM adoption complements proactive strategies by enabling early clash detection and conflict resolution. Together, these loops stabilize projects and minimize risks.

R1 and B2 (Stakeholder Engagement and Conflict Identification): Active stakeholder involvement enhances early conflict detection, as engaged stakeholders are more likely to flag potential issues.

Table 2. Breakdown of main core variables and their relationships.

Main Core Variables and Their Relationships
BIM Implementation Process (within ISO 19650 specs)	Proactive Issue Recognition and Conflict Mitigation	Stakeholder Dynamics	Team Collaboration and Dynamics	Project Efficiency and Delivery
Starts with BIM assessment criteria, which evaluate the need for BIM. This leads to the implementation of BIM and further to BIM adoption. Positive Effects: Adoption of BIM boosts advanced data representation and improved communication. Both factors drive better project outcomes.	Early Conflict Identification: Enables project teams to identify potential conflicts before they escalate. Leads to proactive solutions and preventive problem solving, reducing disputes and conflict-related inefficiencies. This process is strengthened by improved visualization and enhanced communication, both of which result from BIM capabilities.	Better project alignment. Increased investments (time, effort, and resources) by stakeholders. A Reinforcing Loop (R1): Greater engagement creates trust, fostering deeper involvement and further improvements in communication and outcomes.	Strengthened team dynamics arise from clear communication and early conflict resolution. improved relationships between team members create a virtuous cycle, enhancing teamwork and reducing misunderstandings.	Efficient project management is an outcome of reduced disputes, enhanced communication, and proper stakeholder engagement. This translates into enhanced project delivery and shorter completion times, which, in turn, improve overall project performance.

and

Table 3. Benefits and challenges facing using building information modeling for proactive dispute avoidance in construction projects.

Benefits and Challenges Facing Using Building Information Modeling (Within ISO 19650 Specs)
Benefits	Challenges
Improved Clarity and Communication: ○ Visualization and information exchange reduce ambiguity, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. ○ Clarity directly reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and disputes. ○ Communications between different stakeholders are enhanced and improved, which depends on the level of detail (LOD) of the introduced model. ○ BIM is used to identify potential disputes by clash detection feature *. Proactive Risk Mitigation: ○ Identifying potential risks or conflicts early reduces reactive measures, saving time and costs. Stakeholder Alignment: ○ Active stakeholder involvement fosters trust and ensures that decisions are collaborative and inclusive. Optimized Project Delivery: ○ Enhanced management efficiency, faster delivery, and conflict resolution minimize delays and maximize resource utilization.	Resource Allocation: ○ BIM adoption and implementation require significant upfront investment in time, money, and training. The system assumes a positive ROI but does not address initial barriers explicitly. 2. Human Factors: ○ Even with advanced tools, interpersonal issues can persist if not managed effectively. Strengthened team dynamics and stakeholder relationships are pivotal but require constant nurturing. 3. Balancing Reinforcing and Balancing Loops: ○ Too much reliance on reinforcing loops like R1 and R2 (e.g., continuous stakeholder demands) could lead to resource strain. Balancing loops like B1 and B2 are necessary to stabilize the system.

* Clash detection is one of the most important capabilities of BIM platforms, with different types of clashes (Hard, Soft, and duplicate) that are introduced by different platforms of BIM. Capturing these clashes in real-time will reflect on minimizing most problems, mainly between different disciplines of designers, contractors, sub-contractors, and between all stakeholders. When minimizing these problems, this will shorten the actual time of execution and minimize cost overruns related to reconstructing or repeating work again, which means minimizing all change orders, claims, and disputes. So, clash detection makes a transparent vision of the design stage for all parties or stakeholders in construction projects.

show the breakdown of the main core variables, their relationships, and the benefits and challenges faced by building information modeling for proactive dispute avoidance in construction projects, respectively.

7. Limitations and Future Research

This study applied qualitative methods, including a literature review and expert interviews, to identify and analyze the key factors contributing to construction disputes and how BIM can proactively address these issues. Despite providing valuable insights, the study has some limitations. First, the limited number and professional backgrounds of the interviewed experts may affect the generalizability of the findings. Thus, future research should engage a broader and more diverse group of construction professionals across various project types and geographic regions. Second, although this study clearly identifies the relationships among factors through a causal loop diagram (CLD), these relationships have not yet undergone quantitative validation. Future studies should quantitatively verify these relationships to further strengthen the proposed framework. Lastly, further research is encouraged to address interoperability challenges related to BIM maturity levels and to investigate practical approaches for integrating the proposed BIM-based framework into existing project management systems and decision support tools.

8. Conclusions and Further Works

This study underscores the strategic role of BIM in proactively avoiding disputes within construction projects. By employing a CLD, the research illustrates how BIM enhances communication, fosters collaboration, and improves project efficiency, ultimately mitigating conflicts. The findings highlight four key strategies for effective BIM integration.

The research identifies the following four core strategies for effective BIM implementation:

Early Adoption of BIM (within ISO 19650 specs): Implementing BIM during the early project stages (within ISO 19650 specs) ensures the detection of design conflicts, enhances collaboration, and improves visualization for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement: Building trust through active engagement, regular updates, and the use of 3D visualization tools aligns expectations and minimizes resistance.

Proactive Conflict Resolution: The early identification of issues through workshops and open communication prevents disputes and maintains team cohesion.

Balancing System Dynamics: While reinforcing loops like stakeholder engagement drive success, balancing loops are essential to manage resources and timelines effectively.

The CLD framework offers actionable insights for addressing the root causes of disputes, revealing how BIM optimizes project workflows and stakeholder interactions. The research highlights the importance of balancing technology, communication, and human relationships to achieve efficient, dispute-free outcomes. The continued exploration and application of these principles will play a critical role in advancing construction management practices and fostering sustainable project delivery.

The following points can be expressed as suggestions for further work to improve this study:

• Evaluate the feasibility of integrating the framework into a Decision Support System (DSS) to assist project managers in real-time decision making for dispute avoidance.
• The framework can be integrated with existing project management platforms through APIs or middleware.

9. Implications for Practice

The findings emphasize the importance of balancing technology, communication, and stakeholder relationships to achieve successful project outcomes. BIM is a central enabler, driving improvements across all these areas by providing tools for proactive planning and efficient management. Balancing proactive strategies, such as early conflict detection, with dynamic feedback from stakeholders is essential for creating a stable and efficient system.