Strategies to Make Your Modular Project Successful

Matt McWhirter. Dec 26, 2020. 2 min read. Updated: Feb 3.

Modular construction creates buildings with the same look, feel, and performance as conventional construction. The method offers time savings, cost and schedule certainty, higher quality structures, and less waste.

Six pre-construction strategies

1. Research and pre-qualify

Research the industry and issue a formal request for pre-qualification. Securing an expert early brings expertise into project planning.

2. Commit to the concept of modular

Modular construction should not be an afterthought. Early commitment helps achieve the overall vision, permanence, and performance demanded by architects and owners.

3. Collaborate at every stage

Bring all stakeholders together at every stage. This helps clarify assumptions, address concerns, and improve project outcomes. Teamwork becomes more important as design complexity increases.

4. Design with a modular approach in mind

Modular construction can match site-built construction in building science, architectural design, lifecycle durability, and energy efficiency. An integrated design approach is important for coordinating modular structural requirements with mechanical and electrical systems.

5. Understand that timing is everything

Modular construction has an accelerated timeline. Schedule efficiencies can be lost if teams do not understand sequencing. Allow enough time for full design development up front, then freeze the modular footprint.

6. Clearly define the scope of work for all parties

Complete the scope of work document at the pricing stage. It should define responsibilities, capture costs, and reduce scope gaps and overlaps.

Key takeaway

Modular construction offers owners and developers peace of mind when pre-construction planning, coordination, timing, and scope definition are handled well.