BIM-enabled supply chain integration in offsite construction: practices and technical mechanisms

This study examines how Building Information Modelling (BIM) facilitates supply chain integration (SCI) in offsite construction projects (OCPs). Drawing on the Construction Supply Chain Integration Framework (CSIF) and the BIM Integration Capability Framework (BICF), the study identifies BIM-enabled integration practices (BEIPs) and the technical mechanisms through which they operate. Adopting a pragmatic, qualitative approach, the study employs thematic analysis of expert interviews. The findings reveal that BEIPs span all phases of the offsite construction supply chain (OSCSC), supporting integration through structured workflows, enhanced traceability, and early-stage coordination. These practices are underpinned by BIM technical mechanisms (BTMs) and further reinforced by complementary technical mechanisms (CTMs), including common data environments and RFID tracking. While BIM enables systemic integration, its potential is constrained by persistent interoperability challenges. The study offers an empirically grounded account of how BIM contributes to SCI in fragmented offsite environments and provides conceptual and practical insights for advancing digital integration strategies.