A text mining approach to trend analysis of research on building information modelling in the Middle East and North Africa

This study describes an ongoing research into using text mining technique to identify trends in research on BIM (building information model/modelling/management) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The described research has collected relevant studies on BIM and analysed changes in the patterns and research trends in the selected research period. The research is conducted by using literature review to justify the research aim and objectives, data collection from publication databases to establish a relevant dataset, and data analysis through text mining to identify the patterns and trends in BIM oriented research in MENA. The above research enabled establishing an original view on patterns and trends in BIM oriented research in the MENA. The text analysis approach developed from the described research can be useful for further research into developing a generic text analysis roadmap (TAR) to facilitate academic research and professional practice by using text mining technique in construction management within BIM pervasive project environment. Based on the preliminary research, this study provides useful information on how to use text mining technique to identify patterns and trends in BIM oriented research in the MENA. Research ndings described in this study can well inform further research in related areas.