CBPM Conference 2026 · Vol. 2026, Issue 1

BIM adoption strategies for SMEs to Manage Construction Project Risk in the Western Cape Province of South Africa

Murendeni Curry Nemakanga , Lance Wentzel and Rainer Haldenwang

Keywords: Building Information Modelling, Construction Project Risks, Small Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Abstract

The construction industry plays an important role by creating jobs through small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite their importance, construction SMEs in South Africa continue to face substantial project risks. The purpose of this research was to determine Building Information Modelling (BIM) adoption strategies that can be implemented by construction SMEs in the Western Cape Province of South Africa to manage construction project risks. A quantitative methodological approach using a structured online questionnaire survey was used. The research data was analysed using only descriptive (percentages, mean, standard deviation, etc.) statistics. The sample population was construction SMEs registered on the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) register of contractors between Grade 1 and 6 under the General Building (GB) and/or Civil Engineering (CE) categories. The sample size was 25 construction SMEs selected using the voluntary response sampling method. The top perceived BIM strategies include: government grants that support small businesses; offering of continuous professional development and certification programmes and, collaboration between SMEs and larger construction companies and universities. The findings can assist construction SMEs in the Western Cape to understand the relationship between the strategies for adopting BIM and how it can improve the management of project risks contributing to long-term business growth.