Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) has been regarded worldwide as an effective tool to integrate design and construction processes and thus to address the performance problems in the construction industry, but the realization of its value still faces a variety of technical, process-related, organizational and cultural barriers. Based on the discussions on BIM application practices worldwide and the diffusion process of the Two-Dimensional Computer-Aided Design (2D CAD) technology in the Chinese construction industry, this paper analyzes the diffusion characteristics of BIM in the construction industry, and proposes some BIM application strategies for design and construction enterprises in China. In order to better realize the potential benefits of BIM, design and construction enterprises need to balance the implementations of the cost advantage strategy and the differentiation strategy, and to forgo the "mindlessness" during the BIM adoption and implementation process. Design and construction enterprises are also suggested to establish multi-stage BIM application aims, to plan systemic BIM application solutions, and to effectively integrate enterprise business processes and project processes.