BIM: configurations and unfoldings for implementation in practice and architectural education

This paper reports on the initial findings of a long term case study. It focuses on the BIM implementation efforts for Brazilian public firms that are responsible for the design, construction and management of buildings, infrastructure and urban spaces. It was postulated that BIM implementation could bring to Brazilian public institutions benefits similar to the ones achieved in the US, yet at a different cost structure. Research follows a mixed methods approach using focus groups and quasi experiments. Results describe obstacles encountered, benefits realized, and process changes expected that result from Brazilian socio-cultural context applied to public institutions