Wuni, I Y; Shen, G Q and Antwi-Afari, M F (2023) Exploring the design risk factors for modular integrated construction projects. Construction Innovation, 23(1), pp. 213-228. ISSN 1471-4175
Abstract
Purpose: Modular integrated construction (MiC) is considered as a process innovation to improve the performance of construction projects. However, effective delivery of MiC projects requires management of risks and uncertainties throughout its delivery chain. Although the design stage of MiC projects is usually managed with limited knowledge based on highly uncertain data and associated with epistemic uncertainties, MiC design risks have not received adequate research attention relative to other stages. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a knowledge-based evaluation and ranking of the design risk factors (DRFs) for MiC projects. Design/methodology/approach: The paper reviewed the relevant literature to identify potential DRFs and validated their relevance through pilot expert review. The paper then used questionnaires to gather data from international MiC experts from 18 countries and statistically analyzed the data set. Findings: Analysis results showed that the five most significant DRFs for MiC projects include unsuitability of design for the MiC method; late involvement of suppliers, fabricators and contractors; inaccurate information, defective design and change order; design information gap between the designer and fabricator; and lack of bespoke MiC design codes and guidelines. A correlation analysis showed that majority of the DRFs have statistically significant positive relationships and could inform practitioners on the dynamic links between the DRFs. Practical implications: The paper provides useful insight and knowledge to MiC practitioners and researchers on the risk factors that could compromise the success of MiC project designs and may inform design risk management. The dynamic linkages among the DRFs instruct the need to adopt a system-thinking philosophy in MiC project design. Originality/value: This paper presents the first study that specifically evaluates and prioritizes the risk events at the design stage of MiC projects. It sets forth recommendations for addressing the identified DRFs for MiC projects.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | critical risk factors; delivery chain; design risks; modular integrated construction; project delivery; risk management |
| Index terms: | construction project, methodology, design stage, design risk, questionnaire, practitioner, philosophy, risk management, risk factor, project delivery, project design, linkage, change order, correlation analysis, designer |
| Subjects: | research methods, production management, contractual condition, financial risk, philosophical studies, environmental hazards, statistical analysis, data collection methods, profession, risk assessment, business, practitioner, professional practice, contractual arrangements, project delivery |
| Topics: | Design Practice, Contract Administration, Research Practice, Project Management, Business Strategy, Cost Management, Procurement, Sustainability, Risk Management, Roles and Professions |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here