Development and Preliminary Evaluation of a VR-BIM Integration Framework for Decision-Making and Workflow Optimisation in Construction Projects

Abstract

Construction projects have long suffered from communication gaps and coordination challenges, resulting in design conflicts, inefficient decision-making, and rework. This study aimed to develop and conduct a preliminary evaluation of a Virtual Reality (VR)-Building Information Modelling (BIM) integration framework to support decision-making and workflow optimisation in construction projects. The proposed framework was developed through a structured literature review and enriched by expert perspectives obtained through discussions with construction professionals. The framework comprised six interconnected layers linking digital project information, immersive visualisation, stakeholder interaction, decision-making, and workflow-related outcomes. A preliminary evaluation was conducted through an expert survey involving 31 experienced construction professionals in the United Arab Emirates. Respondents generally considered the framework clear, logically organised, and useful for improving project understanding, multidisciplinary coordination, communication, and decision-making during project reviews. Overall, respondents supported the framework but expressed moderate concerns regarding its practical implementation. The survey results suggested that the framework could support construction coordination and review activities, although further empirical validation remained necessary. This study contributes a structured VR-BIM integration framework together with an initial expert evaluation. The proposed framework provides a basis for future empirical validation and implementation in construction projects.