A Customized Data Environment for Small and Medium Construction Enterprises

Abstract: The architecture, engineering, and construction supply chain is predominantly composed of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Despite the growing adoption of digital tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), SMEs often face challenges streamlining these tools with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This paper presents a study that worked with an SME to develop a “customized data environment”, inspired by common data environment approaches, linking their BIM and ERP workflows. The paper describes the action research cycle used to develop the prototype. Insights into both the tool and the process evolution will help other SMEs facing similar integration challenges.