Design for manufacture: A strategy for successful application to buildings

Building designers' counterparts in the manufacturing industry use proprietary methodologies described by the term 'design for manufacture' (DFM). Their use has resulted in radical improvements to productivity and quality. The potential benefits of applying DFM to buildings are widely recognized. However, there are differences between design in the manufacturing industry and in the construction industry. An analysis is provided here of how building design information and activities could affect successful application of DFM in the construction industry. The paper presents a review of DFM literature and a field survey of construction manufacturers, assemblers and consultants. The results suggest that information and activities prevalent in building design are barriers to the successful application of existing DFM methodologies. However, it may be possible to apply the fundamental principles of DFM to buildings. A strategy to achieve this is introduced and discussed.