Modular construction creates buildings with the same look, feel and performance as conventional construction. The significant benefits of the method include time savings, cost and schedule certainty, higher quality structures and less waste.
Modular has critical differences from site-built construction in its building process – particularly in the pre-construction stages. Getting the most from your modular project requires different thinking and coordination. By understanding and implementing six pre-construction strategies, you can watch your project succeed right from day one.
Strategy 1: Research and Pre-Qualify
This step is a key part of the due diligence required for any construction project but can take more time and take on more significance if you are exploring modular construction for the first time. Research the industry and issue a formal request for pre-qualification. Securing an expert early will allow them to bring their expertise to the table for your project planning.
Strategy 2: Commit to the Concept of Modular
Deciding to use modular construction should not be an afterthought. Modular is a methodology that can achieve the overall vision, permanence and performance demanded by architects and owners and provide its significant benefits if you commit to the concept early on.
Strategy 3: Collaborate at Every Stage
Harnessing the expertise and insight of each stakeholder allows you to optimize your project outcome. Bringing all stakeholders together at every stage ensures concerns are dealt with and assumptions are clarified. The more complex or sophisticated the design, the more important teamwork becomes.
Strategy 4: Design with a Modular Approach in Mind
Modular construction can match site-built construction in building science, architectural design, lifecycle durability and energy efficiency. However, different design elements must be considered as a result of the alternative method and addressed early in the design development process. An integrated design approach is key to taking care of coordination between the unique structural requirements of modular and other areas such as mechanical and electrical.
Strategy 5: Understand that Timing is Everything
The accelerated timeline of modular construction is one of its most appealing benefits. Schedule efficiencies can be lost, however, if the design and construction teams do not understand the sequencing. Allow enough time for full design development up front and then freeze the modular footprint. Team cooperation and communication play a significant role here.
Strategy 6: Clearly Define the Scope of Work for All Parties
Complete your scope of work document at the pricing stage to both assign responsibilities and ensure all costs are captured. The scope of work document can be modified but should be the document that ultimately defines the roles and responsibilities of all participants. That detailed checklist can dramatically reduce the potential for scope gaps and overlaps.
Buildings Reimagined.
Through all its many benefits and its differences from site-built construction, modular truly offers one important thing to owners and developers: peace of mind on your project. To learn more about strategies to make a modular project successful, enjoy this whitepaper from Horizon North Modular Solutions.