Articulo 24
Articulo 24
Heliyon
journal homepage: www.cell.com/heliyon
Research article
A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T
Keywords: The construction industry wields significant influence in the economies of various countries.
Project management However, compared to sectors like manufacturing and aeronautics, it has lagged in terms of
Information systems digitalization of processes and project management advancement. This study aims to explore how
Viable systems model
the integration of Lean principles, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Project Lifecycle
Lean construction
BIM
Management methodologies within an information system can enhance decision-making in
construction project management as a complex environment. A comprehensive literature review
was conducted to establish a conceptual framework and gather necessary information for
designing an information system. The design was based on the viable systems model and the soft
systems methodology, from a systemic perspective that encourages the synergistic interaction of
these methodologies. The resulting abstract model would facilitate a comprehensive under
standing of the interconnectedness of these methodologies, emphasizing collaborative work en
vironments for efficient information management. This approach aims to replace the current
isolated application of each of those methodologies and promises improved project management
performance.
1. Introduction
The construction industry holds great importance in the economies of many regions [1]. Nevertheless, its fragmented nature leaves
gaps that require attention for improvement [2,3]. Projects within this sector often encounter unpredictable and complex situations,
commonly referred to as VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) environments, which hinder the ability to accu
rately predict performance and success. Furthermore, project performance in the construction sector has a significant impact on the
industry itself and as on the economy of the implicated countries [4–6].
Previous studies have shown that some organizations still rely on traditional project management methods, claiming that they yield
satisfactory results. Other organizations have adopted alternative methodologies to enhance their performance. However, research
suggests that the outcomes of such efforts could be improved, as evidenced by project productivity indices [2,7]. Some studies indicate
that implementing tools in isolation has not yielded convincing results and the impact on the sector has been insignificant presenting
low percentages of on-time deliveries, non-compliance with initial budgets, and deficiencies on digitization of processes [8].
* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: [email protected] (M. Aguilar-Fernández).
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31886
Received 28 June 2023; Received in revised form 22 May 2024; Accepted 23 May 2024
Available online 25 May 2024
2405-8440/© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC license
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/).
L.P. León-Romero et al. Heliyon 10 (2024) e31886
Abbreviations
The study aims to improve efficiency in design and construction processes by integrating proven practical tools in other sectors [9].
To achieve maximum effectiveness in project management [10,11], this paper proposes the integrated use of Building Information
Modeling (BIM), Lean construction, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), rather than using them in isolation as is common today.
The proposed integration of these methodologies is achieved through the design of a digitized comprehensive information system [12],
based on the model of viable systems formulated by Beer [13] from the fundamental principles of recursion or fractality, autonomy,
cohesion, and viability [14]. This approach requires a greater commitment from all stakeholders and strengthens the flexible stan
dardization of processes through digitization.
2. Literature review
According to the Project Management Institute project management is described as the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and
techniques to activities developed within the framework of the execution of a project with the purpose of fully meeting the established
requirements [15]. The use of methodological tools that help to improve the decision-making process to ensure a better result ac
cording to the objectives set. However, some authors recognize that traditional project management based on the PMBOK method
ology and the ISO standard, have limitations and difficulties in achieving the objectives, affecting costs, time, quality, and human
resources [16]. This is partly because the traditional mode is based on the following three stages: bidding, planning, and construction,
under a scheme of individualistic work where communication between the parties is poor, each agent performs just to the point that
concerns to their responsibility, leaving aside what the project requires [7]. Other causes of unachieved objectives are attributed to the
fact that traditional methodologies focus their attention on cost control, downplaying the importance of preliminary phases such as
planning and context analysis, as well as their distance from the creation of collaborative spaces in the early stages of the project [11].
This highlights the need to migrate towards flexible methodologies that address such shortcomings from systems integration [17],
which is essential for the design and execution of large projects with many interconnected activities, that give them the characteristic
of complexity [17,18].
Digital tools in the field of project management are useful to optimize the development of the line of work [19,20] and allow
characterizing it within the so-called industry 4.0 [21]. The use of technological equipment contributes to minimizing errors,
increasing speed and accuracy, if they are properly used [8,22]. The evolution of information systems has implemented simulation
techniques that contribute to significantly reduce constructions’ errors from their initial design phases [23]. Information systems are a
great help in complex projects where several actors involved who require available and updated information to make the best decisions
for avoiding delays and extra costs in their results [24]. From this tool, daily operations are in constant connection with administrative
and strategic activities allowing better management of processes, especially the critical ones. Information systems allow connectivity,
communication, and automation from the access and management of information and can contribute to reduce rework [25]. However,
in the construction sector difficulties persist [26].
Construction is a sector constantly growing and it is very important for the economies of most countries around the world. However
it is a sector of slow growth in project management and digitization, factors that affects this sector’s productivity [7], when it is
compared to other sectors such as aerospace, automotive and manufacturing [11]. So it is necessary to contribute to the efficiency of its
processes [23] to avoid failing to comply with delivery times and costs previously established [27]. In addition to reduce its envi
ronmental impact and incidences in its work labor activities [19]. On this article, we evaluate strategies from the dynamic systems
abstract model applied on the life cycle of construction projects, to support the integration and interaction of variables from an in
formation system for making more efficient decision-making processes that have direct impact on the performance of projects [3,4].
The most relevant problems in the management of construction projects are related to the compliance with the deadlines estab
lished to deliver results [28], the establishment of budgets, the management, the availability of good quality information in real time,
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the integration of the actors within the project [11], and the digitalization of the processes [7], as uncertainty is a characteristic of all
these factors [29]. Therefore, this work focuses its attention from the systemic perspective on the creation of an abstract model where
methodologies that have been successful in other industries. Applying them in a compact and not isolated way. as they have been
applied so far. Resulting until these days on a non-evident significant advancement for the sector.
Several studies indicate that the average compliance of construction projects is between 25 and 30 % and this is due to various
causes and pressure of the environments in which these projects are developed. One of the reasons for these results is the level of
complexity given by the wide network of participants involved and required to be interconnected. Decisions of a stakeholder affect
another’s and finally this is reflected in the comprehensive management of the project in the medium and long term. Results of the
effectiveness are based on the feedback in the interdisciplinary group that constitutes the project there is not always proper traceability
of this communication process. In addition, up to 49. 7 % of the time spent does not generate value [11]. The system approach from a
common technological platform, it is very useful for the management of each of the stages of the life cycle of construction projects. The
integration of information systems in a project is relevant for reducing the degree of uncertainty that exists due to the nature of the
sector. The dynamic analysis of the system is a significant contribution from the perspective of learning in the productivity and
performance of the project is properly shared [8–10].
Projects that are considered complex systems have benefited due to the introduction of tools based on space and design infor
mation. These tools have achieved important efforts establishing a system that provides efficient information throughout the life cycle
of the project. To improve competitiveness, it is necessary to use systemic thinking as a mechanism to manage it and ensure its success.
Complexity is more accentuated to the extent that environmental changes (technological, socioeconomic, governmental, environ
mental, cultural) advance rapidly and without predictions [30]. The complexity of a project is approached from two angles: one
holistic, where the objective is related to the project execution process; and one analytical, which allows the detailed definition of the
subsystems and their reciprocal interrelation. These two perspectives will be relevant for making holistic decisions affecting the overall
project due to the performance in a complex environment (understanding by environment the relationships that the project must
consider and that cannot be controlled or changed) before the project needs to adapt to it [31]. Authors [32] agree that complexity is
also due to the characteristics of the type of project in which variables such as project scope, geographic location, and labor force are
evaluated; and the relationship of these variables impacts on the execution and development of the project, bearing in mind the risks of
the activity that may endanger human life.
BIM is considered a useful design methodology for the execution stage of a construction project. However, it is certainly idealized
for use in every phase of the project life cycle. This methodology contributes to the improvement of information processing, better
communication flow [11], data interoperability throughout the work team, and provides the opportunity to have a common language
available to all at any time; allows being aware of project changes in real time and performing verifications before implementation,
whether it is convenient or not, according to its principle of inference detection [22]; and also contributes to improve the sustainability
of the project [33,34]. The methodology is used in a very limited way [35]. Its use should go beyond the 3D (level where the 3D model
is made), where it is frequently used. The relevance of levels 4D (level where the 3D model and the estimation of project activities are
included) and 5D (includes 3D model, time estimation and project costs) [36] represents a great contribution for the scheduling of
activities, establishment of calendars and costs control. While the 6D level contributes to the sustainability of the project, and the 7D as
a tool for the maintenance operations of the facilities [16,20,37].
LC is a philosophy that promotes the reduction of waste such as rework, unnecessary movements, duplication of operations [38],
and contributes to promote collaborative work [39]. Thus, it saves time and costs [22]. It’s a philosophy that seeks to increase value in
the processes for the customer [11,40], among its tools there are: Just in Time, Kanban, Last Planner System, value stream, integrated
delivery of projects. This philosophy is favorable for the construction sector because it contributes to improving productivity,
increasing performance, quality, and the environment [41]. Likewise, it reduces costs, intangible waste such as leisure time and ac
cidents [42], it focuses on control and planning from the integration of stakeholders to avoid waste and contributes to generate value
for the customer [41].
PLM is considered an organizational activity with emphasis on the optimal management of products, services, and the pieces that
constitute it. From the high volumes of information that are generated in this work, on an integrated manner throughout its life span,
starting from the idea until the final stages such as the withdrawal and disposal of the product or service [43,44]. This methodology,
like lean, is on the way to increase value for the customer and other stakeholders as a collaborative system [45], and to achieve
effectiveness of the project under development [46]. As a business strategy, it requires processes to be standardized and focuses
directly on the creation, management, dissemination, and collaborative use of information for product or service definition [47]. It
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provides the opportunity to integrate people, processes, systems, and information. It links information and knowledge through process
control, hence the need for standardization [48]. As a limitation, there is no clear way to carry out the application of such a business
strategy to have a successful information management [49].
Some authors propose the integration of BIM and Lean construction as a mechanism to increase the productivity of the sector. It is
also indicated that 91 % of the entities believe necessary a systematic change in terms of project management and 80 % of the same
population agrees with the inclusion of techniques from the industrial area [11]. A point in common between these two currents is the
collaborative approach between project stakeholders [50], and the fact that together they generate several benefits, such as maxi
mization of projects productivity [10,40,51]. This application covers the planning, scheduling, and operation control processes in a
construction project [37,52]. Unfortunately, there is still little research carried out to analyze the integration of these methodologies.
They are considered as computer systems [53]; PLM, from its strategic approach, supports all stages of the life cycle of the product,
service, or project, which generates a source of data linking people, processes, technologies, and information. This allows the latter to
be stored and consulted when it’s required [54]. This is the fundamental basis on which BIM is supported in the construction sector.
While PLM starts with the project idea, BIM arises in the design phase where its major application is focused [55]. However, according
to its purpose, it should be present in each phase of the project until the product’s final disposition as PLM does. The main difference
between them is the field of application, while BIM is mainly used in the construction sector; PLM is used in complex projects in the
aerospace and aeronautical area [56].
The integration of these two concepts is less common. Those who have risked searching for continuous improvement through best
practices offered by Lean and PLM tools study it from an innovative environment for sustainable development and profitable orga
nizational growth [57]. This relationship between PLM and Lean is usually applied on the manufacturing sector suitable for repeatable
and responsive business processes from technological tools that aligned to the objective that constitute them. This combination offers
as an organizational advantage the saving of time and resources because it minimizes the need for changes [58]. For his part, N. El
Faydy et al. state that PLM and Lean are suitable for Industry 4.0 due to their favorable performance in standardization, automation,
and use of technological tools to improve the performance of organizations [59]. However, E.F. Nada and E.A. Laila argue that despite
the benefits of this relationship of concepts, it has not been successful due to the lack of models that contribute to the implementation;
and in the field of research, there are few works that relate them [60].
After conducting a literature review, it has been detected that the intricacy of managing construction projects needs the devel
opment of strategies. The most effective strategies are those that prioritize integration and collaboration through a constant exchange
of information. This is mainly critical for decision-making purposes, as demonstrated by using agile methodologies during the design
phase of a project [61].
Fig. 1. Integration and contribution of the support tools for the design of the information system.
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Agile methodologies and lean philosophy share similarities in the design phase, and some research has shown positive results in this
area. However, according to Owen et al. (2006) [62] the construction phase of a project involves a more diverse team, and the
temporary nature of these teams makes it challenging to implement agile practices from design to construction consistently. Never
theless, this research aims to fill significant knowledge by establishing a methodology that links design and construction. Therefore,
this work proposes the integration of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for managing the entire life cycle of a project, Lean
Construction as a flexible and collaborative philosophy to reduce waste and idle time; and Building Information Modelling (BIM) for
efficient management of information from all project stakeholders. These three methodologies have a high degree of compatibility and
approximation in their purpose. Fig. 1 shows how these three methodologies have common points that facilitate their integration. The
proposed relational link between these three methodologies would ensure that the team is constantly communicating and aware of
changes throughout the project stages, encompassing both processes.
On the other hand, adopting a systemic approach in this type of study is essential. However, this approach was not evident in the
review. The processes seen are often linear, with one group entering and the other leaving according to the order of work planning. To
better understand a project, it is relevant to analyze the environments that surround it, including systems, subsystems, and macro
systems. This analysis helps to identify the elements that affect the project and how they influence it. It is significant to note that these
elements should be considered as a whole, as they are interconnected and cannot disperse, as is evidenced in the literature. Analyzing a
system from a process perspective helps to improve productivity and efficiency, leading to lower costs and timely deliveries. The
continuous flow of reliable information from the technological field improves flexibility and aids decision-making [19]. From a human
team’s perspective, it promotes communication, collaboration, learning, and interdisciplinary exchange of ideas. Additionally, it re
duces waste generation and optimizes resource utilization, thus contributing to environmental sustainability [3,33].
This research allows project managers and policymakers to know that systematic and global analysis and early stakeholder inte
gration permit improved decision-making, making it essential to consider them as an initial step.
To develop the system dynamics abstract model, we used the soft systems methodology presented by Checkland [63,64], structured
with the meta-methodology presented by Sterman [65]. Using causal diagrams from the I. think 8.0 systemic modeling software, these
models were created [66].
Projects cannot be classified as linear systems since they are susceptible to various environmental and context variables. Due to
their nature, unexpected behaviors often emerge, making it challenging to predict their execution and future development. Therefore,
systemic methods must be employed to manage them effectively.
Considering Sterman’s teachings [65], this qualitative research used the soft systems methodology developed by Checkland [63]
which consists of an integrated learning cycle of 4 types of activity: 1) perceived problem situation, 2) purposeful activity modeling
(based on worldviews), 3) comparison and structured discussion about change, and 4) improvement actions [64].
These teachings establish that digital environments accelerate learning and aid in problem-solving through models. By bringing
real situations to the virtual environment while preserving their most significant characteristics, these abstract models contribute
favorably to project management.
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This study aims to connect Lean Construction philosophy and Building Information Modeling (BIM) within the Project Lifecycle
Management (PLM) framework.
To develop this work, we started by identifying the problematic situations, which came from different world views. Then, the
variables involved in this situation were determined. Subsequently, the relationships and connections between these variables using
the viable systems configuration of Stafford Beer [67] were analyzed. This study involved examining the variables’ behavior while
considering the internal and external environment situations. This methodology was then specifically applied to project management
in the construction sector. Fig. 2 provides a graphical representation of the interdependence of these methodologies.
Starting from the identification of an actual situation that is perceived as problematic, of which there are different worldviews, the
variables of interest and their relationships are determined and then taken to a purposeful model. This model provides questions about
the situation, allowing to explore and create a structured discussion to address those worldviews towards a desirable change for the
system under study [10]. Fig. 3 shows the stages of the research development using the soft systems methodology.
To design the model, the viable systems proposed by Stafford Beer were followed [67]. It is crucial to ensure that all systems are
interconnected with the subsystems and macro systems to achieve accurate results. Some people tend to overlook this fact and do not
reflect its value in the proposed methodologies. This is pointed out in Fig. 4 to understand the recursion of the system and how it fits
into other extensive systems while containing smaller ones.
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Identify the relationship of the variables between systems and with the environment.
Recognize strengths, threats, weaknesses, and opportunities.
Structuring a systemic relationship model of internal and external variables to know the influence between the interconnections.
According to Sterman [65], experience helps to improve the virtual representation with each modeling cycle, while experiments
provide new information to alter realities. The model represents reality in a simplified form. Fundamental changes generate new
problem situations that are addressed by identifying essential variables, analyzing historical behavior, and formulating new hy
potheses using the Checkland model. In summary, the model is crucial as it simplifies reality and helps to identify limitations and
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Delimitation of the information system (its scope, objectives, essential variables, historical and future behavior).
Formulation of hypotheses and dynamics of the feedback structure. Feeding of world visions as proposed by Checkland.
Elaboration of the causal map, subsystem diagram, actions, and information system flow for subsequent purposeful modeling.
Estimation of parameters, behavioral relationships, and initial conditions.
Sensitivity and robustness test according to its purpose.
Scenario specification and design of improvement policies.
Learning and improvement of the proposed model.
The previous steps are summarized graphically in Fig. 5. As presented by Sterman, modeling represents an iterative process of
continuous improvement and learning from the concrete world through virtual environments that allow the system to evolve.
I.think 8.0 software was used to create the systemic models, which was useful for modeling and simulation of complex problems in
the system dynamics environment; allowed the generation of models for the purpose of performing analysis in different scenarios
having variables that are attributed properties and parameters to identify them and interconnect with others [68].
4. Results
A project considered a system is part of a larger system (macro system) which has properties that affect and are affected by its
execution. In this system, there are variables such as government, technology, culture, market, competitors, resources, and share
holders. In the development of the project, collaborative work, active communication, timely information, efficient decisions for a gear
and success in the expected results. In addition, it is also integrated by subsystems. These are smaller and are located inside, some of
them are: basic complex systemic atmosphere because of the number of variables and interconnections that arise between them as
shown in Fig. 6.
operations subsystem, information subsystem, audit subsystem, strategic subsystem, and subsystem of policies and values for
decision-making. When they interact, they create a
As mentioned before, the project is also integrated by other systems. When they are well-coordinated, contributing to increasing the
efficiency in processes such as decision-making and, therefore, in results obtained. According to the systemic structure proposed by
Stafford Beer, there are 5 subsystems that are also impacted and have influence with an external environment. It is important to
consider that not all systems have direct connections with each other, but they are affected by indirect relationships as shown in Fig. 7.
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The management of construction projects is determined by four main variables as listed below.
Customer requirements.
Information system as a means of interconnection.
Digitalization and flexibility of processes.
Customer satisfaction as a point of adjustment for continuous improvement.
The benefits obtained by the integration of these variables from the BIM-Lean Construction-PLM integrated model is summarized in
Table 1, where four categories of interest in construction projects are identified.
The causal interconnection of the variables that interact in the management of construction projects is shown in Fig. 8.
The processes and stages are represented in Fig. 9, where the stages and phases that are part of construction project management
are shown.
Similarly, Table 2 identifies the phases or stages of the project in which each methodology has the greatest impact for its
application.
Management based on the control and analysis of risks and restrictions, appropriate management of information and communi
cation, continuous monitoring of operations and execution of structured plans are necessary to make timely decisions throughout the
project life cycle, favoring the efficiency and productivity of the sector. Including generation of value for the client through the
improvement, and flexibility of its internal processes and interconnections with their environments. Fig. 10 shows the abstract model
dynamics of action of project management in the construction sector integrating Lean Construction, BIM and PLM.
The project dynamics begin with the client’s requirements, where they discuss time, cost, and quality concerns. There is constant
communication among the parties. If the project is accepted and assigned, communication continues, including feedback with sup
pliers and contractors to initiate the implementation of the project. Factors related to costs, delivery times, and feasibility are also
considered. In parallel, potential problem situations are identified, which include analyzing restrictions and risks. There is online
follow-up in real-time to provide a timely solution. All of this is done while considering the proposed tools, namely LEAN, BIM, and
PLM, to ensure the project is completed according to the requirements, with improvement actions throughout the execution where all
interested parties participate actively.
Fig. 7. Relationship between the systems from the viable systems model proposed by Beer and Porter’s forces present in the external environment.
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Table 1
Benefits of the integration of BIM-Lean Construction – PLM system in construction projects.
Category Integrated system benefits BIM-LEAN-PLM
Process Cost and time efficiency Continuous flow Flexibility Adaptability - Continuous improvement
Competitiveness
Technology Control of digitized Interoperability Previous Conflict identification Reliable decisions and
information simulation efficiency
Stakeholder Collaboration Communication Integration Knowledge Training
Socioenvironmental Waste reduction Sustainability Integrality Systematic empathy Added value
Fig. 8. Causal relationship between the most relevant variables for project management.
The information system, by capturing information, selects, cleans, stores and shares information when it is needed for decision-
making. The information that is not shared is stored for future consultation according to events, as shown in Figs. 11 and 12.
The information system in evidence is not isolated, it has a direct connection with systems 1 and 3. System 1 provides information
and system 3 receives it from system 2. Graphically, these processes are shown in Fig. 13.
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Table 2
Impact on project phases for each methodology integrated in the model.
Fig. 10. Action dynamics of project management in the construction sector integrating Lean, PLM, and BIM.
The inputs to system 2 come from system 1, where work plans are executed, and all immediate actions required by the system are
carried out. Always responding to project’s necessities on a “here and now” responsiveness; Project’s needs do not wait to be processed
by other systems because they are considered of vital action to prevent undesired results in the project. The outputs of system 2 reach
system 3 where they are compared to the standards and indicators established as a measure of achievement against the established
objectives. Any deviation observed can take one of the two paths enabled: on one hand, if it requires immediate action, it will return to
system 1 for its prompt execution; or if it requires an analysis and future execution plan, it will go to system 4 where strategically, and
together with system 5, necessary actions will be taken according to preestablished policies. Appropriate strategic plans will be
implemented to correct such deviation.
Finally, Fig. 14 reflects the integration of the project statuses with the management stages and the intervention of the information
system for decision-making through the project life cycle.
Several authors agree on minimizing the existing fragmentation gap between stakeholders and digitization of processes in the
construction sector, as a mechanism that allows better results, especially the compliance of time and costs [7,12,20,44,60]. The link of
tools that contribute to collaborative work is suggested for this purpose [42] as showed in the projected model from a global systemic
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Fig. 11. Relationship of processes, operations, and results in the performance process of system 2 (information system).
Fig. 12. Internal process of system 2 in the management of information for decision making.
perspective is not linear, as its usually carried out in most solutions suggested to date.
In the literature, there are studies focused on the unification of methodologies like BIM and PLM. The model designed for the
integral consolidation of information [67], proposed to overcome the static vision of the digital model, that supports the communi
cation process [68], and considered a strategic management information system. However, they recognize a significant degree of
uncertainty in this methodological combination [69]. Since, in practice, project management is based on activities rather than on
information [70]. This proposal focuses on strengthening the communication process based on quality information available to all
stakeholders.
Another combination carried out in the sector is BIM plus Lean Construction helping to reduce errors and waste [56] and, in
general, offering a holistic improvement in project management [71]. Eldeep et al. (2022) studied the barriers that prevent the
achievement of the objectives regarding the application of BIM and Lean construction. Also stated the level of acceptance and
application of this association is shallow in the sector due to the lack of research [72]. Another aspect stated by these authors, is the
lack of knowledge of the benefits of integration and awareness of professionals and regulations in the sector [73]. By observing the
connection points of these methodologies, we arrived at this research proposal, which is the compatibility of the tools that facilitate
management.
The combination of PLM and Lean is seldom used in the construction industry. It is more frequently applied in the aeronautical
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Fig. 13. General detail of system 2 (information system) identifying its inputs and outputs, with system 1 (operational) and system 3 (regulation
and control).
Fig. 14. Relationship between project management (indicating its status and phases) and the intervention of system 2 (information system) during
the project life cycle.
[74], and manufacturing [75] sectors. BIM tools have been implemented in construction and integrated into project management.
However, they are yet to be explored. The need for more information about this integration represents one reason for its limited use
[76]. It is essential to encourage adopting these practices in academic environments, so they can be implemented in organizations that
will benefit from the advantages.
This study contributes to improving efficiency of decision-making process based on an information system in a collaborative work
environment by integrating BIM, Lean construction, and PLM methodologies. This systemic relationship of methodologies is relevant
due to the compatibility of the structure, purpose they pursue individually, and the fact that they do not get the maximum benefit in
their individual state. The project management benefits the initial stages (idea) as the concluding stages (ultimate disposition of the
construction) by integrating its life cycle and involving all the collaborators from the same channel.
The findings of this study indicate that information systems should not be managed in isolation. They support project management
provided by other systems such as essential operations, monitoring through indicators and standards, strategic planning of activities,
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institutional policies, and values system for decision-making. All these systems are affected by an external environment, that is directly
related to the basic operating system. If it requires direct attention or the strategic planning system does, the response must be
structured to provide a solution in the future.
Additionally, this study reveals that information represents a crucial part of the integration process. It requires a substantial degree
of quality, determined by its level of truthfulness, accuracy, integrity, and reliability, and it must be available according to the user’s
interest.
Consequently, the general review of the literature on construction project management must improve its results in time and form.
The application of traditional or the most recent methodologies accompanied by lack of integration of the participants from the
primary stages do not provide the best result. This research’s objective was to propose a new way of approaching integral project
management, directly integrating the participatory, communicative components based on continuous information flow through
systems that warrant it.
On the other hand, integrating variables through effective communication channels offers attributes that equally represent the
principal value of this research to academic, management, and policy perspectives for project management in the construction sector.
From the management and policy area:
Project coordinators and managers have an alternative for approaching their work, this time in a global way, considering elements
that were previously ignored because they did not conceive a holistic idea of the process but rather fragmented individual parts that
had to be adapted. Even if that meant delays and severe costs in the middle of the execution. By applying our proposed abstract model,
the team is integrated from the initial to the concluding phase, being aware that each action or decision affects others’ work.
Fundamental aspects such as information flow, communication, and active collaborative environment among project members
from primary stages provide significant change in the way of managing projects. It is necessary to break paradigms, open minds, and
transform the current procedural and cultural structures [7]. For the academy is an opportunity to design integral training processes in
certain areas of study. So, they are encouraged to apply it to other sectors and learning management tools, even if they are unspecific to
the area.
From the academic field, interdisciplinarity is highlighted, from the extra-polarization of tools from other areas of study. Such as
migrating from manufacturing or aeronautical environments to construction due to the success stories where those sectors improved
their results in terms of management of their operations thanks to standardization and digitization. The latter is one of the most
challenging operations for professionals. Combining the necessary variables to obtain results in time and form represents a non-
fundamental task. This task needs tools to strengthen its activity based on information and integration of teamwork from a sys
temic scope.
As this is a conceptual model, it is necessary to verify its accuracy through validation of the integration model. So, we would know
the level of contribution in the sector with more solid criteria. On the other hand, considering it as future research, it is essential to
deepen the environmental impact that this integration of methodologies may cause. A favorable result is expected because Lean
contributes to the adequate and appropriate use of resources, BIM allows better accuracy of the requirements in terms of materials
before use, and this application is relevant at each stage of the project, i.e., throughout its life cycle. So, the effect on the environment
would be minimal in terms of negative impacts.
Data availability
All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article.
Luvis P. León-Romero: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Methodology, Investigation, Funding acquisition,
Formal analysis, Conceptualization. Mario Aguilar-Fernández: Methodology, Funding acquisition, Formal analysis, Conceptualiza
tion. Amalia Luque-Sendra: Validation, Formal analysis. Francisco Zamora-Polo: Validation, Supervision, Formal analysis. Misaela
Francisco-Márquez: Supervision, Investigation, Funding acquisition, Formal analysis, Conceptualization.
The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to
14
L.P. León-Romero et al. Heliyon 10 (2024) e31886
Acknowledgments
We gratefully thank the CONAHCYT for the scholarship and Secretaria de Investigación of Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) for
making possible the mobility to Luvis Paola Leon-Romero in the master program. We thank the SNI of CONACHYT, the EDI and PEDD
scholarships (Both from the IPN).This work has been supported by the GOYA - Antonio Unanue in Engineering in the Agrifood Industry
Chair of the University of Seville (Spain) and the VII Own Research and Transfer Plan 2023 of the University of Seville (Projects 2023/
00000378 and 2023/00000390).
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