International Journal of BIM and Engineering Science

Embodied-carbon assessment has become an essential component of structural design, yet many life-cycle assessment workflows remain separated from the evolving building information model. This paper proposes a dynamic OpenBIM–LCA framework that connects structural geometry, construction-system material records, and environmental factors within a transparent computational loop. The method extracts element quantities from an IFC-oriented structural model, maps them to a material library, and updates embodied-carbon indicators whenever design variables are modified. The framework enables rapid comparison of structural alternatives, element-level hotspot diagnosis, and sensitivity-based interpretation without requiring a separate assessment model to be rebuilt after each design change. The study demonstrates how BIM quantities and material attributes can be translated into a rigorous carbon-calculation procedure for early-stage decision-making. The contribution lies in transforming BIM from a passive source of schedules into an active environmental decision-support environment for low-carbon structural design.

Purpose: This study develops a code-agnostic, mechanics-first framework to quantify the parametric sensitivity of axial flexural (N-M) interaction in reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls and to produce transferable rankings of key “design knobs” controlling N–M response metrics. Design/methodology/approach: A strain-compatibility, fiber-based sectional solver is formulated for rectangular, T, I/H, and U-shaped wall sections. The mechanics engine is decoupled from a modular code-profile layer (ACI-/EC2-/BS-consistent mappings) to enable cross-code comparisons. Interaction curves are normalized to isolate mechanics-driven shape effects, and scalar metrics are extracted at multiple axial levels (e.g., M^* (N^*=0.1,0.3,0.5), Mmax, and balanced-point indicators). Sensitivity is quantified using local elasticities, Morris screening, and Sobol variance-based indices; numerical reproducibility is verified through convergence and mesh-independence controls. Findings: Normalization collapses most cross-code variability in curve shape, while design-level curves retain separable safety-format differences. Sensitivity rankings vary with axial level and section family, revealing nonlinear interactions and regime shifts especially for irregular sections where flange participation can dominate near peak or balanced states.  Practical implications: The framework supports cross-code traceability and efficiency-based design guidance (steel and boundary efficiency) across axial regimes, highlighting diminishing returns and marginal benefits. Originality/value: The study delivers a reproducible, code agnostic N–M engine integrated with rigorous global sensitivity analysis to bridge the gap between sectional mechanics and design-oriented decision-making.

Post-conflict reconstruction often prioritizes speed and cost over long-term sustainability, leading to environmental, social, and economic inefficiencies. This study proposes an integrated framework that combines Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance multi-dimensional sustainability in reconstruction projects. An exploratory explanatory case study methodology was adopted, analyzing two Syrian case studies—a service building in Tartous and the Al-Qarabis neighborhood in Homs—through BIM-based simulations and AI-driven optimization. BIM served as the core data platform, while AI facilitated scenario analysis and optimization across both design and operational stages. Sustainability indicators were explicitly mapped to relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13). Results indicate that BIM–AI integration significantly improves energy efficiency, operational performance, spatial adequacy, and life-cycle cost effectiveness, effectively translating sustainability from a conceptual goal into measurable outcomes. The framework provides empirical evidence for operationalizing Building Back Better principles and offers a transferable methodology applicable to other post-conflict reconstruction contexts. Future studies could explore the incorporation of additional AI-driven decision support tools or expand the framework to diverse post-conflict regions to further validate its applicability and impact.

In recent years, the construction sector in Syria has witnessed increasing challenges related to the weak efficiency of engineering supervision, leading to increased costs, delayed completion, and recurring field conflicts between different disciplines. In light of the digital transformation taking place in the global construction sector, Building Information Modeling (BIM) has emerged as a modern technical solution capable of improving the quality and effectiveness of supervision. From this perspective, this study analyzed the impact of implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) on enhancing the efficiency of engineering supervision in Syrian projects, by assessing its role in improving information quality, controlling schedules, and reducing errors and costs. The study adopted a descriptive analytical approach supported by a field study. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed, including 24 criteria covering all aspects of engineering supervision, and distributed to a sample of 90 supervising engineers in the public and private sectors. The results showed that adopting BIM clearly contributes to improving the accuracy of information and facilitating its exchange between parties, early detection of field conflicts prior to implementation, enhancing progress monitoring, and reducing rework rates. This increases supervision efficiency and achieves cost and time savings. However, the study revealed obstacles that limit the implementation of BIM in Syria, most notably weak digital infrastructure, a shortage of qualified personnel, the absence of regulatory policies supporting digital transformation, and weak training and qualifications in Syrian university curricula. The study concluded the need to adopt clear government policies mandating the use of BIM in major projects, develop specialized training programs for engineering supervisors, and establish a Common Data Environment (CDE) that supports digital integration among all parties. The results also confirmed that the shift to digital supervision using BIM is no longer just a technical option, but rather a strategic step to improve the efficiency of construction projects in Syria and ensure their sustainability.

Purpose – The current global transformation in the construction industry, through the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and ISO 19650 information management, is hindered by a missing financial Return on Investment (ROI) on the ISO 19650 information management. This is a hindrance for investment and decision-making. The research seeks to solve the problem through the establishment of a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) for the realization of the “ISO 19650 Dividend.” Design/methodology/approach – A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was adopted, integrating a systematic literature review, the analysis of existing data (n = 104), a cross-sectional study involving a primary survey of a targeted cohort in the UK and Saudi Arabia (n = 187), and in-depth expert interviews (n = 15). Quantitative data were analysed using weighted mean, gap, and path analyses, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings – The paper pinpoints the attainment of operational efficiency and cost competitiveness as the key priority level for the value drivers, while pointing out the substantial gap in measuring the intangible value, such as organization capital and sustainability. Commitment to the organization by the leaders stands as the key critical success factor. The key outcome of this paper includes the development of the four-leveled KPI Framework and the conceptual model focusing on the adoption and successful measurement, resulting in the ROIa. Practical implications – The framework offers a structured roadmap or a step-by-step process change that enables organizations to move from basic process compliance measurement metrics to financial metrics measurement in their digital projects. This framework provides professionals in this domain a way in which benefits realized from collaboration are converted into a proxy measures. Originality/value – Instead, this research breaks the mold of general sets of BIM benefits in offering the first-ever integrated measurement framework that specifically sets out to quantify the ROI of implementing ISO 19650, by synthesizing performance metrics with qualitative knowledge of leadership and change management in a holistic approach for the realization of digital promise and profit.

This study examines the architectural elements that characterize the Islamic style, such as the inner courtyard, mashrabiyas (latticework screens), windcatchers, and others, explaining their role in achieving a balance between human needs and climatic conditions. It also explores the traditional building materials used in the Damascene house and their role in providing thermal insulation and adapting to the surrounding environment. The study employs a descriptive-analytical approach, collecting data through an analysis of historical and contemporary literature on the Damascene house as a model of traditional Islamic architecture. This includes the use of sustainable materials (stone, tuff, wood, etc.) and designs that achieve energy efficiency and rely on renewable energy sources (mashrabiyas, windcatchers, and inner courtyards). These elements are then compared with their counterparts in modern architectural designs. To assess the sustainability of the Damascene house, it was evaluated using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system. The number of points it could receive if it met the LEED assessment criteria was calculated, and its sustainability rating was determined. The LEED system assigns several ratings that reflect the degree of sustainability achieved by a building: Standard, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The study concluded that the high level of sustainability provided by the Damascene house makes it a successful sustainable model that combines Islamic cultural heritage with harsh and challenging climatic conditions. It received a Platinum rating with a sustainability score of (82.85%). This underscores the need to draw inspiration from the creative elements found in the Damascene house in modern building designs, achieving significant economic savings and reducing negative environmental impacts. A set of recommendations and proposals was developed to utilize the elements and components of the Damascene Islamic house in achieving the desired sustainability.