INTEGRATING DATA GOVERNANCE AND HUMAN CAPITAL FOR SUSTAINABLE BIM ADOPTION IN ASIAN MEGAPROJECTS

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is increasingly promoted to drive digital transformation and sustainable development in Asia's mega construction projects. Despite the widespread adoption of technical standards such as ISO 19650 and open BIM frameworks, implementation often suffers from fragmented data governance and critical gaps in workforce competencies. This study argues that treating data management and human capital as isolated domains severely limits the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of BIM adoption. Employing a comparative mixed-methods approach—comprising comprehensive policy reviews, semi-structured stakeholder interviews, and targeted professional surveys—this research evaluates institutional readiness and BIM maturity across Singapore, China, and Thailand. The findings highlight that architectural design serves as the crucial entry point for structured project information, yet practitioners often lack the essential data-oriented competencies needed to prevent downstream inefficiencies. To address these systemic challenges, the study proposes the BIM Talent Pipeline Framework, which systematically integrates data governance with human capital development. This framework spans four socio-technical stages: education, certification, industry practice, and continuous development, underpinned by a robust Education-Industry-Government partnership model. Ultimately, sustainable BIM adoption requires aligning technical mandates with institutionalized talent development strategies.