[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.1″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]Predictability and accuracy: These two traits are inherent in any successful project. When both are present, the preconstruction team can provide better constructability reviews and pricing, as well as tight, precise schedules.
In the first blog, we discussed how safety, quality control, and training help make accurate, predictable schedules. Today, we discuss two technical methods CEC Facilities Group uses for successful projects: BIM and prefabrication.
A building information model (BIM) is more than just a 3D blueprint. It’s a game-changing tool that bridges the experience gap. For instance, a novice owner can see a glaring clash in a model that only a master preconstruction director could catch on a 2D drawing. Here are three more ways BIM brings value to a project:
You’ve seen the surge on the manpower charts: The project is firmly underway, and suddenly every trade needs to double its presence on the jobsite. On traditional projects, the manpower spike often drives an increase in recordable injuries, worker congestion throughout the jobsite, additional supervision, and potential rework. Pull-Planning helps reduce this, but prefabrication allows contractors to pull those hours offsite. Dodge Data & Analytics’ survey showed that 80 percent of respondents saw “improved cost predictability, reduced waste and increased client satisfaction” when using prefabrication methods.
Prefabrication improves the project in several ways:
BIM planning: Schedule, predictability
A building information model (BIM) is more than just a 3D blueprint. It’s a game-changing tool that bridges the experience gap. For instance, a novice owner can see a glaring clash in a model that only a master preconstruction director could catch on a 2D drawing. Here are three more ways BIM brings value to a project:
- Single source of truth: On traditional projects, each trade would have their drawings of the project. If there was a change order, then all trades had to update their plans. While some trades keep their BIM separate from other trades, they are usually built on the same platform. That allows for quick updates, and avoids discrepancies between trades.
- Accurate forecasting: When paired with a materials pricing databank, virtual design and construction (VDC) professionals can provide precise cost estimations in preconstruction. With a few clicks, they can also provide time and cost projections for change orders.
- Material procurement: Advancing a subcontractor’s material purchasing window into the design phase allows for better order times on long lead-time items. It can also purchase materials at off-peak times to save on costly rush-order charges. Both can be attributed directly to experienced virtual design and construction teams.
Offsite fabrication can reduce manpower surge
You’ve seen the surge on the manpower charts: The project is firmly underway, and suddenly every trade needs to double its presence on the jobsite. On traditional projects, the manpower spike often drives an increase in recordable injuries, worker congestion throughout the jobsite, additional supervision, and potential rework. Pull-Planning helps reduce this, but prefabrication allows contractors to pull those hours offsite. Dodge Data & Analytics’ survey showed that 80 percent of respondents saw “improved cost predictability, reduced waste and increased client satisfaction” when using prefabrication methods.
Prefabrication improves the project in several ways:
- Quality: Working inside removes congestion and weather concerns from the equation. Fabricators and assemblers become specialists, and the product can be spot-checked for quality.
- Delivery schedule: Kitted material can be tracked and shipped just in time, and can even be assembled offsite to increase installation speed. This becomes crucial on zero-laydown projects.
- Safety: Employees are working inside in a controlled environment, which reduces injury risk from busy jobsites, weather, and inexperience.
- Lower prices: Using Lean and Six Sigma manufacturing practices, prefabrication companies effectively remove one layer of the supply chain, reducing overall costs. These savings can be passed along to the end customer.