Critical sustainability factors in industrialised building systems

Abstract

Purpose -This paper presents findings of a research study aimed at identifying critical sustainability factors for improved implementation of Industrialised Building Systems (IBS).It also highlights the importance of decision support, through the establishment of decision making guidelines, for sustainability deliverables in IBS development.Design/methodology/approach -A broad range of sustainability factors, as perceived by researchers and practitioners, are identified through a comprehensive literature study. A study of the survey and statistical data analysis is conducted to examine the criticality of these sustainability factors in IBS implementation.Findings -18 sustainability factors are identified as critical to IBS implementation. Their interrelationships and driving forces are explored, which leads to the development of a conceptual model to map these factors for actions or potential solutions. The work provides a sound basis towards a set of decision making guidelines for sustainable IBS implementation.Originality/value -Compared with previous studies that focus on technical or economical aspects, this study extends existing knowledge on construction prefabrication by linking all aspects of sustainability issues with the design process. It also covers industry characteristics of developing countries, as represented by Malaysia's scenarios.

Significant Factors of Key Parameters for Low Medium Cost Housing Demand in Malaysia

“…Thus the result of reliability test for this research, as shown in Table 4 Figure 1 meanwhile portrays the results acquired from the mean rank analysis in order to determine the priority importance ranking of each parameter addressed in this research. The mean value 4.00 represents "important" and thus the ranking of "significant" parameters for the low medium cost housing demand in Malaysia is being classified based on the mean value, which exceeds 4.00 from the standard deviation [27]. However, parameters with the same mean value are selected based on the highest standard deviation.…”

“…The data generated from questionnaire interview are analyzed through a reliability test prior to conducting a frequency analysis. The mean rank method has been used to determine ranking of each parameter involved where the most effective parameter will be determined based on mean score with value more than 4.00 [20] …”

Motivational Factors on Adopting Modular Coordination Concept in Industrialized Building System (IBS)

“…The components are then positioned and assembled into structures. The production in a controlled environment able to reduce the numbers of workers involved, shorten the construction period, increase quality of buildings, reduce cost and enhance occupational health and safety [8][9][10]. With the coordination for measurement system and open building concepts, this construction technique will improve the project deliverables.…”

“…However, open building system will also provide a high degree of design flexibility but required a maximum coordination between the designer and manufacturer [12]. Higher commitment is required in early involvement of project between key stakeholders [10].…”

A CMMS Expert using BIM for IBS Building Maintenance

“…The developed model of decision making support in diagnosis quantifies the overall condition properly and evaluates the possible alternatives regarding selecting a solution for building improvements [23] [24]. Sustainability involves issues such as the design and management of buildings; materials performance; operation and maintenance; long-term monitoring; and the dissemination of knowledge in related technical contexts.…”