Potentials of prefabrication for self-help and mutual-aid housing in Developing Countries

Abstract Contrary to common belief, prefabrication is not a new construction process but one which has been used extensively and widely for many years. Furthermore, as this study demonstrates, this process is not exclusively based on high technology approaches but is in fact appropriate and advantageous to low-income communities and self-help builders. This study, based on research in China, Columbia, India, Mexico and Nicaragua, seeks to determine the advantages and disadvantages of such appropriate prefabricated techniques within this context. The study shows that, given the right circumstances, costs can be reduced, employment opportunities generated, low skill levels utilised, opportunities created for women and that local resources can provide the basis of such prefabrication.