Offsite construction supply chain management: a scientometric analysis and systematic literature review

Abstract

Offsite construction (OSC) stands as a contemporary and eco-friendly construction method that holds the potential to alleviate housing shortage by increasing housing availability. Consequently, OSC needs to improve its supply chain (SC) to enhance its performance and sustainability. Hence, this study aims to perform a comprehensive review of offsite construction supply chain management (OSC-SCM), particularly in the context of the challenges. In response, this research contributes by conducting a thorough and holistic mapping of supply chain management through the analysis of 102 journal articles. The objectives of this study include first identifying challenges and gaps in the supply chain management of OSC and proposing avenues for future research. The study employs a mixed methodology to achieve these objectives, combining scientometric and systematic reviews. Through scientometric review, prominent journals, researchers, and co-occurrence networks of keywords were investigated. The in-depth findings highlight the critical challenges encompassing design, manufacturing, transportation, and onsite assembly within the OSC's supply chain. Additionally, an evident gap in the field can be addressed by strategically employing optimisation techniques. Thus, the OSC sector can surmount barriers and achieve improved project outcomes by enhancing SC efficiency. The result has significant ramifications for academic and corporate stakeholders. The construction industry may foster collaboration, creativity, and global problem-solving by utilising OSC practices since the clarity they provide on the procedures makes it easier to apply best practices.