Since 1991, the construction industry has faced declining productivity, presenting considerable challenges. With the advent of technological innovations, Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerges as a potential solution. However, as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)navigate this technological shift, they encounter financial constraints. Consequently, open-source software (OSS) is proposed as a cost-effective alternative. This research aims to identify the key interfaces in the value chain of SMEs and to investigate how BIM can optimize these areas. Using a qualitative approach, specifically expert surveys, a BIM application model suited for SMEs will be formulated. Concurrently, the study will assess the viability of OSS solutions within the BIM framework. To achieve these goals, various scientific approaches are used: a systematic literature search, a qualitative approach by conducting expert surveys among SMEs and the reference modeling methodology for modeling. The findings indicate that within the SMEs' value chain, the pivotal points are planning and engagement with building owners. These challenges arise from insufficient planning quality and in decision. BIM offers a solution due to its collaborative nature, which centers on a unified database. It's essential for builders to establish appropriate foundational conditions early in projects. This is particularly crucial since SMEs are both initiators in the value chain and rely significantly on the preparatory efforts of planning and input from builders. Through expert surveys, distinct challenges faced by SMEs during BIM implementation were pinpointed. These encompass both internal challenges, such as employees' resistance to new technologies and a scarcity of specialized staff, as well as external obstacles, including data deficiencies for BIM and inadequate network connectivity in rural construction locations. A BIM application model, anchored in a reference framework, was formulated to ease its integration into business processes. This model offers a comprehensive strategy for weaving BIM into daily operations and is tailored to guide companies through their BIM transition. Its practicality and applicability were further underscored through an illustrative scenario evaluation. Finally, the literature review on the suitability of OSS solutions for SMEs in the BIM context shows that although OSS (BlenderBIM) covers some functions, they do not offer the full range of functions of licensed solutions. This highlights the need for further research in this area.     «

Since 1991, the construction industry has faced declining productivity, presenting considerable challenges. With the advent of technological innovations, Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerges as a potential solution. However, as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)navigate this technological shift, they encounter financial constraints. Consequently, open-source software (OSS) is proposed as a cost-effective alternative. This research aims to identify the key interfaces in the value...     »