Model for Creating Cloud-BIM Environment in AEC Firms: A Grounded Theory Approach

This paper focuses on Cloud-BIM services and develops a model for creating Cloud-BIM environment in AEC firms using a Grounded Theory approach. The paper describes a Cloud-BIM environment as an environment within an organization that serves as a workspace for accessing cloud-BIM services. Cloud-BIM is also described in this paper as the integration of BIM application services with cloud computing deployment models. Based on the definitions of Cloud-BIM, Cloud-BIM environment, and Cloud-BIM services, this paper develops a model of Cloud-BIM environment by adopting a five-step form, specifically representing the organizational processes when creating a workspace for accessing cloud-BIM services in AEC firms. The five stages include the selection of the appropriate Cloud-BIM deployment method, selection of the appropriate Cloud-BIM services, selection of the appropriate Cloud-BIM service provider, creation of online accounts with the selected Cloud-BIM service provider, and set-up a dashboard of online accounts. The model contributes to Cloud-BIM research by increasing understanding of Cloud-BIM, Cloud-BIM environment, and Cloud-BIM services. The practical benefit of the model is that it creates awareness and knowledge of Cloud-BIM for the professionals and top management of AEC firms; and also provide information on entrepreneurial opportunities made available by Cloud-BIM