BIM-Integrated InfraWorks and MCDM Approaches for Road Alignment Selection: Comparative Evaluation Using VIKOR and TOPSIS

Traditionally, the planning and design of road infrastructure projects relied on conventional methods. However, with technological advancements, the InfraWorks tool, integrated into BIM, has become essential for planning these projects in a realistic environment. This process begins with the evaluation of multiple route alternatives, comparing them based on technical, environmental, and economic criteria, to select the optimal option. The primary objective of this research is to replace the most flood-prone road section among those connecting the city of Sidi Belattar to RN 90, located on the left bank of the Chellif River in Algeria. To achieve this, the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods VIKOR and TOPSIS are used to evaluate and rank the different options. The analysis is based on MCDM methods, combining two complementary approaches: VIKOR (VIsekriterijumsko KOmpromisno Rangiranje) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution), to rank the alternatives. The results revealed a general consistency between the two methods, designating the first alternative as the optimal solution to replace the vulnerable section of the existing route. In conclusion, this approach represents a significant advancement thanks to the integration of InfraWorks and MCDM methods, offering an innovative approach to optimize the planning and design of road infrastructure from the early stages of development.