Impact of Digital Communication Tools on Stakeholder Engagement in Construction Project Management in the United Kingdom

In 2011 the Government of the United Kingdom called for all publicly subsidized construction projects to incorporate the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) Level 2 within its operations by 2016, making it a mandatory tender requirement in all public contracts. As a result of this, the percentage of construction firms implementing BIM as a way of improving stakeholder engagement increased from 13% by 2011 to 73% in 2020. The increase in successful embracement of BIM technology in the past years puts the UK among the global leaders propelling construction advancement via effective use of digital communication technology. BIM’s integration however has not come without challenges. Examining the literature published since the law introduction in 2011, this research explores the relationship between the utilisation of digital communication tools towards the extent of stakeholder engagement in construction projects. The authors examine the benefits experienced by UK construction firms and evaluate the challenges involved in the implementation of Building Information Modelling. The article proposes a direction for further research into the area, with potential for practical implications with long-lasting impact.