Categorizing modularization strategies to achieve various objectives of building investments. Issue 1 (2nd January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peltokorpi, Antti; Olivieri, Hylton; Granja, Ariovaldo Denis; Seppänen, Olli
• Is Part Of: Construction management and economics. Volume 36:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 32
• Page End: 48
• Publication Date: 2018-01-02
• Subjects: Modularization strategy -- product architecture -- product platform -- production system -- building investment; Construction industry -- Management -- Periodicals; Construction industry -- Finance -- Periodicals; 338.47624
• DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1353119
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-6193

Abstract

Abstract: Modularization has recently attracted considerable interest among academics and practitioners. In the construction industry, several modular solutions have been introduced and examined; however, hardly any study comprehensively classifies the different modularization strategies according to their possibility to achieve various objectives of building investments. This research aims to develop a framework for identifying and classifying modularization strategies in construction according to their suitability to achieve the specific outcomes intended for a building or its subsystem. Using the literature on product modularity, product platforms and production strategies as a basis, this study has developed a theoretical framework that proposes connections between the main objectives of a building investment and the dimensions of modularization strategies. The framework is elaborated by testing the propositions, based on an empirical analysis of nine real-life case studies. The findings reveal that modularization can be a suitable approach to develop an innovative design solution; improve a project's quality, cost and schedule performance; and enable flexibility in building use and maintenance. However, suggestions for achieving these objectives vary from project organization-driven to collaborative, integrated or supplier-driven modularization strategies. Developers, owners, contractors and module suppliers can use the framework when positioning and developing their roles in the construction supply chain.