Modularization Business Case: Process Flowchart and Major Considerations

Abstract

Modularization is a well-known method of enhancing project value by exporting a portion of site work to one or more local or distant fabrication or assembly shops/yards. Still, the industry is in need of additional guidance on how to more effectively exploit modularization. To help achieve wider and more effective use of modularization, the researchers and the Construction Industry Institute’s (CII) Research Team 283 develops here a new modularization business case process for developing the modularization drivers (and for determining the degree to which modularization will be implemented). The result is an optimal decision-making process as these drivers are compared with the owner’s objectives and evaluation criteria for cost, schedule, risk and other project objectives. This paper presents this new modularization business case process and lays out the major considerations that pertain to per-project phases. The findings provide guidelines along with a flowchart that should impose rigor on the decision process, helping owners and avoiding poor outcomes.