However, it’s critical that, as an industry we converge on a small number of platform options.
Our current decisions are based on cost, rather than value and outcomes.Initial capital costs and whole-life costs will always be important, but all of the various value metrics and value drivers need to be considered alongside them..
Therefore, another solution which might evolve in the process of transforming construction would be the creation of a digital marketplace.Such a scenario would stipulate certain quality and ethical thresholds for supplier participation.It could be similar to an Amazon model, but with products, sub-assemblies and systems supporting and providing value-driven data.
The data would reflect jobs supported, social value delivered, net-zero carbon emissions facilitated, safety promoted, as well as compliance with regulations and standards..Staying focused: collaboration, disruption & diversification.
The benefits of transforming construction will be enormous, but it won’t happen overnight.
However, as long as we have a clear and compelling vision, and are all aiming for the same end goal, companies will be able to plot their own path to reach it.The manufacturing industry has long enjoyed the benefits of this design to value approach.
At BMW and Volkswagen a common car chassis is used across all models.It’s the finer details that change from car to car - the wheels, trim, engine, bodywork… Similarly, Ikea use a limited kit of components to create their various pieces of furniture.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re making a bed, wardrobe or bookcase, most of the connecting pieces are the same.Construction Platforms allow us to apply this same type of thinking to built assets.
(Editor: Collapsible Calendars)