Assessing alternative prefabrication methods: Logistical influences

Abstract

Any construction project that is completed on-time at the lowest total cost requires the consideration of logistics processes and economics. This study investigates the cost implications of moving and transforming materials in various materials network configurations associated with popular prefabrication construction methods. Efforts focus on the trade-offs that exist among contract-to-completion times, transportation costs, and assembly costs for the alternative construction methods. The findings suggest that the competitive advantage of prefabrication methods can be enhanced through an optimal combination of reduced construction times as well as the number, distance, and configurations of materials and sub-assembly shipments. © 2006 Springer.