Perspectives of UK housebuilders on the use of offsite modern methods of construction

Despite an increasing demand for housing and wider concerns over the need to improve performance, the industry seems to be reluctant to adopt offsite technologies. Many studies have attempted to scrutinize the barriers and seek ways forward, but the perspectives of housebuilders remain unclear. UK housebuilders' views on the use of offsite modern methods of construction (offsite MMC) have been investigated. This investigation was carried out through a combination of personal interviews and a questionnaire survey of the top 100 housebuilders by unit completion. Results suggest that the traditional drivers of time, cost, quality and productivity are still driving the industry in deciding whether to use offsite technologies. Nearly two‐thirds of the firms believed that there needs to be an increase in the take‐up of such technologies. However, current barriers relate to a perceived higher capital cost, complex interfacing, long lead‐in time and delayed planning process. Strategies recommended are centred on changing peoples' perceptions, improving procurement, providing better cost data, tackling planning and regulations, encouraging political levers and providing practical guidance. The suggestions present a model for encouraging the take‐up of offsite MMC in the future.

[1]  Andrew R.J. Dainty,et al.  Subcontractor perspectives on supply chain alliances , 2001 .

[2]  Michael Ball,et al.  Chasing a Snail: Innovation and Housebuilding Firms' Strategies , 1999 .

[3]  M. Naim,et al.  An innovative supply chain strategy for customized housing , 2003 .

[4]  Alistair G.F. Gibb,et al.  Leading UK housebuilders' utilization of offsite construction methods , 2008 .

[5]  James Barlow,et al.  Land for Housing: Current Practice and Future Options , 2002 .

[6]  Andrew R.J. Dainty,et al.  Encouraging appropriate use of Offsite Production (OSP): perspectives of designers , 2004 .

[7]  Geoffrey A. Moore.  Crossing the chasm : marketing and selling high-tech products to mainstream customers , 1999 .

[8]  Alan Hooper,et al.  Design practice and volume production in speculative housebuilding , 2000 .

[9]  M. Naim,et al.  Identifying supply chain solutions in the UK house building sector , 2001 .

[10]  Alistair G.F. Gibb,et al.  Re-engineering through pre-assembly: client expectations and drivers , 2003 .

[11]  E. Rogers,et al.  Diffusion of innovations , 1964, Encyclopedia of Sport Management.

[12]  Cyril Connolly,et al.  Enemies of Promise , 1938 .

[13]  Rajat Roy,et al.  Documentation, standardization and improvement of the construction process in house building , 2005 .

[14]  Steven Groák,et al.  The idea of building : thought and action in the design and production of buildings , 1992 .

[15]  R. Newcombe,et al.  From client to project stakeholders: a stakeholder mapping approach , 2003 .

[16]  A. N. Oppenheim.  Questionnaire design, interviewing and attitude measurement, New ed. , 1992 .

[17]  Linda Clarke,et al.  Cost vs. production: disparities in social housing construction in Britain and Germany , 2004 .

[18]  Richard Whittington,et al.  Exploring Corporate Strategy , 1988 .

[19]  Peter M. Chisnall,et al.  Questionnaire Design, Interviewing and Attitude Measurement , 1993 .

[20]  Alistair G.F. Gibb,et al.  Standardization and pre-assembly- distinguishing myth from reality using case study research , 2001 .

[21]  Gd Wood,et al.  Main contractor experiences of partnering relationships on UK construction projects , 2005 .

[22]  M. Ball.  Housing and construction: A troubled relationship? , 1996 .

[23]  J. Shepherd,et al.  Book and Resource Reviews , 2005 .

[24]  J. Barlow,et al.  From Craft Production to Mass Customisation. Innovation Requirements for the UK Housebuilding Industry , 1999 .