From project-driven to production-driven, the challenge in construction industrialisation
The construction industry is changing. Prefabricated and modular concepts, along with industrialised production, are becoming more popular, but the process of industrialisation can be more challenging than expected. The transition from a project-driven construction company to an efficient, production-driven factory is a bigger step than companies often realise. In practice, investment in machinery and technology often exceeds the development of the underlying production system. The factory is there, but it is not yet functioning as an efficient production facility. This is precisely where the challenge, but also the opportunity, lies.
Flow and capacity determine scalable growth
Ultimately, capacity, flow, OEE and lead times determine whether growth is scalable. However, these concepts are still relatively new to the construction industry. An unbalanced production line leads to waiting times, buffers and waste. As volumes grow, these inefficiencies do not diminish, they increase. Therefore, control over flow and capacity utilisation is not a luxury, but a prerequisite for scalable growth. Additionally, the approach to quality control in factories is shifting from project-based to process-based, quality is built in at the initial stage rather than being checked afterwards.
Where BIM breaks, from model to factory floor
At the same time, a manufacturing environment places different demands on the supply chain. Delivery reliability, material availability and internal logistics all play a part in ensuring that production continues to flow smoothly. And then there is the digital aspect. BIM provides an excellent digital model, but the digital link often breaks at the factory. Data has to be re-entered, ERP and production systems are not sufficiently integrated, and the manual conversion process starts again.
These themes are not separate from one another, they constantly influence each other. Inaccurate planning leads to logistical disruptions, poor data quality causes quality issues, and a faltering supply chain brings production lines to a standstill. Focusing on just one pillar only addresses the symptoms, not the underlying cause. Sustainable improvement requires an understanding of the whole picture.
The Manufacturing Readiness Assessment
Drawing on this experience, Nobleo has developed the Manufacturing Readiness Assessment (MRA). The MRA evaluates the maturity of manufacturing environments across all these pillars, and has recently been adapted for use in the industrialisation of the construction sector. The result is a clear picture of where an organisation stands, where the biggest bottlenecks lie and which initial steps should be taken.
From assessment to roadmap
The MRA is part of the Manufacturing Development Process (MDP). Based on the current situation, as identified by the assessment, a clear picture of the desired future situation is drawn up in collaboration with the client. The first concrete steps required to achieve this transition are then determined. The MRA therefore results in a practical, widely supported roadmap developed in close collaboration with staff who work with the processes daily. This roadmap provides direction and guidance for a successful transformation towards the desired situation.
Do you recognise these challenges within your organisation? The Manufacturing Readiness Assessment shows where you stand and which steps to take first. Get in touch, we are happy to explore what the MRA can do for your organisation.
Achieving New Level Manufacturing Together
Do you recognise these challenges within your organisation? The Manufacturing Readiness Assessment shows where you stand and which steps to take first. We are happy to explore what the MRA can do for your organisation.
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