Overcoming the Barriers Toward Widespread Adoption of Prefabrication: An Approach Involving Emerging Technologies

Abstract

Today, prefabricated construction is rapidly expanding due to the development of factoryprefabricated components, fast construction site assembly, and sustainability. Despite the advantages, there are several problems, such as a lack of process standardization, poor communication and coordination, a lack of variety and transportation logistics, and a lack of trust and collaboration among stakeholders. Fortunately, the successful evolution of emerging technologies has facilitated growth in the building sector. By implementing literature reviews, this research aims to understand better the issues disrupting the widespread adoption of prefabricated construction and integrate innovative solutions and approaches to these issues. We will discuss prefabricated construction and its applications within the building sector by (1) comparing it to conventional construction method; (2) investigating the advantages and barriers toward widespread adoption of prefabricated construction; (3) developing an approach for applying advanced technologies in prefabrication, and (4) applying an approach to demonstrate how prefabrication overcomes conventional building issues. Our research suggests that an integrated approach combining advanced technologies during the prefabrication process will help solve the most significant problems that construction projects face, such as productivity, quality, safety, and sustainability. Additionally, the integration will provide a promising strategy to transform the construction industry from traditional to industrial.