Industrialized Construction

Volumetric modular is a method of building where sizable, prefabricated sections, called “modules,” are finished off-site in a factory, then transported to the construction site to be stacked and joined together to form a complete structure. Volumetric modular building holds the highest potential for significant cost reduction and sustainability gains

It is the most assembled form of prefabrication which prioritizes larger, more finished modules compared to other methods like panelized construction or componentization.

Componentization is the second most preassembled form of fabrication. It often focuses on important, congested areas where several utilities, systems and trades intersect at critical locations—i.e.hospital room headwalls, operating rooms, mechanical and electrical rooms, and corridor plenums.

Componentization is associated with areas of complex, multi-trade work which yields high-qualityresults.

In panelized construction, wall, floor, or roof sections (panels) are prefabricated offsite then transported to the job site for assembly. Flat panels are fabricated from common building materials such as wood, metals, concrete, and glass.  They typically include insulation, MEP’s, glazing or exterior finishes.

Panelized construction blends much of the factory efficiency of volumetric modular without the logistical challenges of transporting large, finished boxes.

DfMA is a standard which optimizes building design for efficient fabrication and error-free on-site assembly, reducing costs via standardized component design. Integrating manufacturing and assembly principles into the original design minimizes waste, streamlines construction, and facilitates maintenance.

DfMA merges shop drawings into the design process.