The 2023 EVOLVE Ultimate Guide To Prefabricated Construction

Prefab is being used all across the industry in a variety of ways. Read on to get an in-depth look at the benefits of prefabricated construction and the various ways construction teams are leveraging the process.

Prefab Construction Table of Contents

The Benefits of Prefab

The World of Prefab

Prefab for Building Types

2023 Prefab Trends

Managing a Prefab Project

Next Level Prefab

Prefab Stories – Case Studies

The Benefits of Using Prefabricated Construction

Prefabricated construction, also known as prefab construction or simply prefab, is a method of building in which various components of a structure are assembled off-site and then transported to the construction site for assembly. This strategy for construction has gained popularity in recent years due to the numerous benefits it offers.

Prefab construction is increasing in popularity construction for several reasons. One of the main advantages of prefab is that it can save time and money, as many of the building components are made in a controlled factory environment, which allows for more efficient use of materials and labor. Additionally, prefabrication can lead to improved quality control and fewer mistakes on the construction site, as well as greater flexibility in design and the ability to easily make changes or additions to the building. Using prefab construction can lead to faster move-in times and have a positive impact on the environment by reducing waste, pollution, and site disruption.

Prefab is being used all across the industry in a variety of ways. Read on to get an in-depth look at the benefits of prefabricated construction and the various ways construction teams are leveraging the process.

Prefab for Time and Cost Savings

Here we’ve summarized the top ways prefab can improve the efficiency and profitability of your company's construction projects.

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  1. The construction process moves faster when the prefabricated components can be assembled off-site, then delivered and assembled on-site. Saving time equates to saving on costs!
  2. The construction process is less dependent on weather conditions, which can further speed up the timeline.
  3. Shorter build times means you are saving on labor costs, site facilities, and equipment rentals.
  4. Prefabricated components can be made to precise specifications, reducing the need for on-site adjustments and rework.
  5. Using prefabricated components can reduce the number of skilled workers needed on site, as many of the components are already assembled.
  6. Prefabrication can reduce waste and scrap, as components are made to exact specifications and can be reused or recycled. See the section ‘Prefab for Sustainability and Environmental Benefits’ for more details.
  7. Prefabrication can also save costs associated with transportation and logistics. Prefabricated components can be easily transported to the construction site.
  8. Because the prefab components are manufactured in a factory setting, there is less waste and the materials can be purchased in bulk at discounted prices. This is how prefab helps save money on materials.

If you are struggling to keep within budget parameters and make the most of your on-hand resources you should seriously consider investing in prefab. It is the best way to take on bigger projects, more often without diminishing the quality of your builds.

But that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of prefabrication. Read on to learn how prefab is improving safety conditions for construction teams.

Prefab construction also offers improved safety. The majority of the construction work is completed off-site, so there is less risk of injury to workers on the construction site. With fewer workers on site, you are minimizing the risk of injuries and accidents. This can reduce the risk of accidents caused by overcrowding or inadequate supervision.

With a prefab shop, there is no need to transport all of the heavy equipment and vehicles that are required to the construction site. Because you are reducing the need for workers to perform tasks such as scaffolding, steel erection, or working with dangerous machinery in a less-supervised environment, you are creating a safer environment for your staff.

Prefab components are manufactured in a factory setting, where safety protocols are typically more stringent. This can lead to a reduction in the costs related to injuries or accidents. This also reduces the need for heavy machinery and scaffolding on the job site, which can be dangerous for the workers. Prefabrication allows shop managers to have greater control as parts and components are made in a safe environment. This often leads to higher quality in the end result.

While prefabrication offers many potential benefits when it comes to safety, it is important to note that proper planning and execution is needed to ensure the safety of workers, both in the factory and at the construction site.

Prefab is also assisting construction companies to make construction projects more sustainable and environment-friendly!

Benefits of Prefab - Prefab for Sustainability and Environmental benefits

As an MEP contractor, using prefabricated construction methods can have a number of benefits for the environment and for your clients. Prefab construction allows for more sustainable use of materials and resources, as well as for more energy-efficient buildings.

Reduced waste: When the MEP components are manufactured in a factory setting, there is less waste created from excess materials and components. Factory settings allow suppliers to purchase materials in bulk and often source them from local and sustainable sources, which reduces the environmental impact of transportation and packaging. This can be a selling point for clients who are looking for environmentally-friendly building solutions.

Faster construction: Prefabrication allows for the simultaneous construction of different building components off-site, which can significantly speed up the overall construction process. This can help to reduce the amount of energy required for construction and the amount of time that a construction site is active.

Better energy efficiency: Many prefabricated building components are designed with energy efficiency in mind. For example, prefabricated walls and roofs can be made with insulation already installed, which can help to reduce the energy needed to heat and cool a building. Building components can be constructed with higher levels of insulation and energy-efficient systems, such as energy-efficient lighting and HVAC. This can lead to lower energy costs for building owners and a reduced environmental impact.

Greater flexibility: Prefabricated buildings can be easily disassembled and moved to a new location, this allows for optimal use of the land. By improving how each square acre is used, construction projects can reduce the environmental impact of urban sprawl and unnecessary land use.

Environmental quality control: Due to the controlled environment of the prefab factory, the quality of the building components are more consistent and defects are easier to identify and correct, thus reducing material waste and errors.

THE WORLD OF PREFAB

Different Types of Prefab Construction Methods

As an MEP contractor, it's important to know the different types of prefab construction methods that are available to you in order to make an informed decision on which one will best suit your project. Here we have summarized the most popular types of Prefabrication:

Panelization: This method involves constructing building components such as walls, floors, and roofing in a factory setting and then transporting them to the construction site for assembly. This method can be used to construct a wide range of building types, including single-family homes, multi-family residential buildings, and commercial buildings.

Modular construction: This method involves constructing complete building units, such as rooms or entire floors, in a factory setting and then transporting them to the construction site for assembly. This method is commonly used for multi-story buildings such as hotels, apartments, and dormitories.

Volumetric construction: This method involves constructing complete building units, such as rooms or entire floors, in a factory setting and then transporting them to the construction site for assembly. This method is similar to modular construction but the unit can be easily reconfigured to adapt to changing needs.

Prefab MEP: This method is used to fabricate and assemble mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems off-site before delivering them to the building site for installation. This method can reduce the time spent on a project and increase the quality of the building, while also reducing costs.

Prefab MEP: This method is used to fabricate and assemble mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems off-site before delivering them to the building site for installation. This method can reduce the time spent on a project and increase the quality of the building, while also reducing costs.

Prefabricated façade: This method is used to fabricate and assemble building façade elements off-site, such as cladding, windows, and curtain walls, before delivering them to the building site for installation.

Container construction: This method involves using shipping containers as the structural frame for a building and can be used for a wide range of building types. This method is fast, eco-friendly, low-cost, and customizable.

Each method has its own advantages and the choice of which method to use will depend on the specific project and the specific requirements of the client. However, by using prefab construction methods, construction teams can reduce construction time, increase efficiency and improve the overall quality of the building.

PREFAB CONSTRUCTION FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF BUILDINGS

Prefab isn’t just for modular homes anymore! Construction teams across the world are leveraging the power of prefab for a wide variety of building types. The following are some examples of the types of buildings that can be constructed using prefab construction methods:

  • Single-family homes: Prefab construction is often used to build single-family homes, as it allows for faster construction times, improved quality control, and cost savings.
  • Commercial buildings: Prefab construction can also be used to construct various types of commercial buildings, such as retail stores, office buildings, and warehouses. This can be a very cost-effective solution for commercial clients.
  • Institutional buildings: This type of building can also benefit from prefab construction, such as schools, hospitals, and government buildings. These types of buildings often have specific requirements and regulations that can be met with prefab construction.
  • Industrial buildings: Prefab construction is also commonly used for iIndustrial buildings, such as factories, laboratories, and data centers. These types of buildings often require a high level of control, which can be achieved by the use of prefab construction.
  • Transport buildings: This type of building, such as transport hubs, terminals, and airports, can also benefit from prefab construction by reducing the construction time, increasing the quality and reducing costs.
  • Modular buildings: These types of buildings, like hospitals, schools, and offices, are built from factory-built modules that are transported and assembled on-site. This allows for a higher degree of customization and flexibility.

The flexibility of prefab construction allows it to be used in a wide range of projects. With theright planning and management, can result in cost savings, increased efficiency and improved safety, while creating high-quality buildings.

MANAGING A PREFAB PROJECT
How to Effectively Plan and Manage a Prefab Construction Project

Prefab can be intimidating to get started, but going in with a strong plan and realistic expectations will help you execute. Here’s a brief guide to help you ensure a successful prefab project!

  • Develop a detailed project plan: A thorough project plan should be developed that outlines the scope, schedule, budget, and resources required for the project. This plan should also include details about the prefab components to be used, including their dimensions, materials, and delivery schedules.
  • Establish clear lines of communication: Communication is key to the success of any construction project, and it is even more critical for prefab projects. Clear lines of communication should be established among all team members, including architects, engineers, builders, and suppliers.
  • Choose the right prefab components: Choose prefab components that are suitable for the project, taking into account the specific requirements of the project and the capabilities of the supplier. It is important to consider the quality, durability, and sustainability of the prefab components, as well as their compatibility with the rest of the project.
  • Coordination of the different systems: For MEP contractors, prefab supports better coordination and integration of different systems, increasing the overall efficiency of the building and reducing the chances of issues or errors.
  • Site preparation and logistics: The site should be prepared in advance to receive the prefab components, and the components should be delivered and assembled according to the project schedule. Proper site preparation and logistics are critical to the success of a prefab construction project.
  • Quality control: Quality control should be performed regularly throughout the project to ensure that the prefab components meet the required specifications and standards. This includes performing inspections and testing before, during, and after the delivery of the components.
  • Project management: A dedicated project manager should be assigned to oversee the project. They can track that each component is being built correctly, and in line with project deadlines. Construction management programs such as EVOLVE Foresight can empower your team with more accurate work cell tracking, BOM management, and materials purchasing, and access to project documents all in a single platform.

By following these steps, a prefab construction project can be planned and managed effectively, resulting in a successful and cost-effective outcome. Start with a strong, clear understanding of the specific requirements of the project and the capabilities of the prefab components that are available. Leverage technology to help minimize human error and improve team communication and management.

The Process of Constructing a Prefab Building

When constructing a prefab building, the process for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) contractors involves several steps:

Design: The MEP contractors would be involved in the design process, providing input on the electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems that will be incorporated into the building. They would work with the architect or the prefab home manufacturer to create detailed designs and plans for the mechanical systems.

Manufacturing: The MEP contractors would work with the factory to ensure that all the mechanical components, such as ducts, pipes, and electrical wiring, are manufactured to the proper specifications and standards. They would oversee the fabrication and assembly of the mechanical systems in the factory, to ensure that they meet the necessary quality and safety requirements.

Shipping: Before the building components are shipped, the MEP contractors would work to ensure that all the mechanical components are properly packaged and labeled, so they can be easily identified when they reach the building site. They would also coordinate the shipment of the mechanical components to ensure they are delivered to the site on time.

Assembly: The MEP contractors would be responsible for the installation and assembly of the mechanical systems in the building, making sure that all the components fit together properly and that the systems function as intended. They would work closely with the other builders to ensure that the mechanical systems are installed in a timely manner and that all safety protocols are followed.

Commissioning: After the building is assembled and the mechanical systems are installed, the MEP contractors would perform commissioning of the building, which includes testing and balancing the mechanical systems to ensure that they are operating at their maximum efficiency.

Inspection and occupancy: After the commissioning process is complete, the MEP contractors would work with government authorities to ensure that the building’s mechanical systems meet all the required safety and building codes. They would also assist with any final inspection or testing that may be required before the building is issued an occupancy permit.

As an MEP contractor, you will be responsible for the design and installation of the building’s electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Your work will play important role in ensuring that the building is comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient.

The Importance of Proper Prefab Construction Site Preparation

Proper site preparation is essential for any construction project, but it’s especially important for prefab construction. This is because prefabricated components are typically manufactured off-site and then transported to the construction site for assembly. So if the site is not properly prepared, it can lead to delays and additional costs.

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Here are a few things to consider when preparing a site for prefab construction:

Access: Make sure that the site is easily accessible for delivery trucks and other heavy equipment. This will ensure that prefabricated components can be delivered and assembled on schedule.

Ground preparation: The site should be prepared by leveling and compacting the ground and installing any necessary foundation systems. This will provide a stable base for the prefabricated components and will prevent settling or shifting over time.

Utilities: Make sure that all necessary utilities, such as electricity, water, and sewage, are in place or are scheduled to be installed before the prefabricated components arrive. This will ensure that they can be connected and tested before the building is assembled.

Safety: Proper site preparation is also necessary to ensure safety. This includes making sure that the site is clear of debris and that any hazardous materials have been removed. This will reduce the risk of injury to workers during the assembly process.

Weather: Proper weather protection should be provided if needed to protect the pre-fabricated components and the workers during the assembly process, also, the site should be protected against future weather events as well.

Planning: Make sure that all logistics and planning are in place, such as the layout of the building, crane rentals, and equipment storage. This will ensure that the assembly process goes smoothly and that there are minimal disruptions to the construction schedule.

Proper site preparation is always critical for the success of construction projects but is especially important with prefab. When you invest time and energy into setting up a proper site you are investing in your own success!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Prefab Construction Methods

As with any construction method, there are a number of mistakes that can be made when using prefab construction methods. Here we will examine seven common mistakes to avoid when using prefab construction methods in order to ensure a successful project.

Not considering site-specific factors: One of the key mistakes that can be made when using prefab construction methods is failing to consider site-specific factors such as weather, transportation, and labor availability when designing and building prefab components. This can lead to delays and unexpected costs during the assembly process.

Underestimating the complexity of assembly: While prefab construction methods can save time and money, the assembly of prefab components on-site can be more complex than traditional construction methods. It is important to properly plan and coordinate the assembly process to avoid delays and unexpected costs.

Failing to properly design for transportation: Prefab components need to be transported from the factory to the construction site. It is important to properly design components to fit within standard transportation guidelines and permit requirements in order to avoid delays and additional costs.

Not considering the thermal performance of the building: Prefab construction methods often rely on standardized components, which may not be optimized for the specific thermal performance requirements of a building. It is important to consider the thermal performance of the building when designing and selecting prefab components in order to ensure a comfortable and energy-efficient building.

Not allowing for proper coordination: Prefab construction methods often rely on the coordination of different team members and stakeholders. It is important to set up a good communication and coordination process in order to avoid delays and miscommunication.

Skimping on Quality

Although prefab construction methods can save time and money, cutting corners on quality can lead to costly repairs and maintenance in the long run. It is important to use high-quality materials and to properly maintain the building once it is constructed in order to ensure a durable and long-lasting building.

prefab

Prefab construction methods can offer significant benefits in terms of time and cost savings, but it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls in order to ensure a successful project. When you into consideration site-specific factors, properly planning and coordinating the assembly process, designing for transportation, considering thermal performance, allowing for proper coordination, budgeting for future changes, and not skimping on quality, you can ensure that your prefab construction project is a success.

Maintenance and Upkeep of Prefab Buildings

Depending on the specific construction and design of the building, there are a variety of different types of maintenance and upkeep tasks that can be performed on prefab buildings.

Examples of electrical maintenance for prefab buildings:

  • Inspecting and testing electrical systems to ensure that they are functioning properly and safely. This may include checking for loose connections, frayed wires, or other potential hazards.
  • Replacing faulty or worn components, such as light fixtures, switches, and outlets. This may also involve upgrading electrical systems to accommodate new equipment or changes in building usage.
  • Conducting regular maintenance on electrical equipment, such as generators and uninterruptable power supplies (UPS), to ensure that they are in good working condition and ready to provide power in the event of an outage.
  • Cleaning and organizing electrical closets and other equipment rooms to prevent overheating and other hazards.
  • Updating and maintaining documentation on the building’s electrical systems, such as as-built drawings, wiring diagrams, and maintenance schedules.
  • Regular testing and examination the grounding system is important for the safety of any electrical equipment. Especially in the case of power surges.
  • Ensuring that there is proper lighting in the building, including emergency lighting and exit signs, this is important for safety of people inside during power failure or emergency.
  • Regularly checking and maintaining fire alarms and smoke detectors, this is important for early detection of any potential hazard in the building.

Prefab construction methods can offer significant benefits in terms of time and cost savings, but it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls in order to ensure a successful project. When you into consideration site-specific factors, properly planning and coordinating the assembly process, designing for transportation, considering thermal performance, allowing for proper coordination, budgeting for future changes, and not skimping on quality, you can ensure that your prefab construction project is a success.

Examples of Mechanical Maintenance for Prefab buildings:

  • The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in a prefab building are critical for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and air quality. Regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning or replacing filters, inspecting ductwork, and testing the performance of the system are essential to keep the HVAC system running efficiently.
  • The plumbing systems in a prefab building also require regular maintenance to prevent leaks and other issues. Tasks such as inspecting pipes for leaks, testing for proper water pressure, and cleaning out drains can help to keep the plumbing system in good

It’s important to note that these are just examples and the specific maintenance tasks will depend on the design of the building and its mechanical and electrical systems, as well as local building codes and safety regulations. It’s always important to hire licensed and qualified professionals to perform any mechanical and electrical maintenance or upgrades on a prefab building.

The Role of Quality Control in Prefab Construction

Quality control is a critical component of prefab construction, as it ensures that the prefabricated components and systems used in the building meet the necessary safety and performance standards. The role of quality control in prefab construction includes:

Reviewing design and construction documents: Quality control professionals will review the design and construction documents to ensure that they meet the necessary codes, standards, and regulations.

Inspecting materials and components:Quality control professionals will inspect the materials and components that are used in the prefabrication process to ensure that they meet the necessary quality standards. This may include testing for strength, durability, and fire resistance.

Ensuring proper assembly and installation:Quality control professionals will inspect the materials and components that are used in the prefabrication process to ensure that they meet the necessary quality standards. This may include testing for strength, durability, and fire resistance.

Conducting final inspections:Quality control professionals will conduct final inspections to ensure that the building meets all the necessary codes, standards, and regulations before it is occupied. This includes checking for proper electrical and plumbing connections, ensuring that the building envelope is properly sealed, and performing functional testing of building systems such as HVAC and lighting.

Documenting and reporting:Quality control professionals will document and report the findings of their inspections and testing, including any issues that need to be addressed. This helps to ensure that any issues are addressed in a timely manner and that the building is safe and habitable for occupants.

By implementing a reliable, consistent quality control program, prefab construction companies can ensure that their buildings are made to last. It will help to prevent problems from arising after the building is completed and help to ensure that the building will be safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient for the occupants.

How to Align your BIM and Fab Shop Teams

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been increasingly adopted in the construction industry as a way to improve efficiency and productivity on construction projects. BIM is a 3D modeling software that helps to create detailed models of building systems, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as coordination, fabrication, quality control, and logistics.

One area in which BIM can be particularly beneficial is in the MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) sector. In this field, BIM can be used in conjunction with prefabrication to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Let’s examine some of the ways in which an MEP contractor’s BIM department and prefabrication shop can work together to achieve these goals.

Coordination

The BIM department can use 3D modeling software to create detailed models of the MEP systems, which can then be used to coordinate with the other trades and ensure that there are no conflicts or interferences in the field. The prefabrication shop can use these models to pre-assemble components and systems, ensuring that they fit together properly and reducing the need for on-site adjustments. This can save a significant amount of time and money by eliminating the need for rework and delays.

Fabrication

The BIM department can use the models to generate detailed fabrication drawings and bills of materials, which can be used by the prefabrication shop to manufacture components and systems in advance.
This reduces the time and cost of on-site assembly as many of the components will already be pre-manufactured and ready to install. This can also help to improve the quality of the final product by allowing for better quality control during the manufacturing process.

Quality control

The BIM department can use the models to create detailed inspection and testing protocols, which can be used by the prefabrication shop to ensure that the components and systems that are being manufactured meet the required standards. This can help to reduce the likelihood of defects or rework in the field. This not only saves time and money but also ensures that the final product is of high quality and meets the necessary safety standards.

Logistics and scheduling

The BIM department can use the models to create detailed schedules and logistics plans, which can be used by the prefabrication shop to plan and organize the manufacturing process. This can help to ensure that the components and systems are ready on time and in the right place. This can help to streamline the construction process and reduce delays, which can ultimately save the contractor both time and money.

Maintenance

The BIM department can use the models to create detailed operation and maintenance manuals, which can be used by the facility management team to make operation and maintenance easy. This can help to ensure that the building systems are well-maintained and operate at peak efficiency, reducing energy costs and prolonging the life of the building.

Lean Construction

By using BIM model, the team can explore and identify construction inefficiency, as well as implement lean construction methodologies like “Last Planner System” or “Pull Planning” to streamline the construction process. This can help to reduce waste and improve the efficiency of the construction process.

It is important to note that good communication and collaboration are key for all the above points to be successful. The BIM department and prefabrication shop must work together and share information to ensure that the process runs smoothly. By working together, the BIM department and prefabrication shop can help to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure a high-quality final product.

Construction management technology is a great way to improve communications, keep your team connected and to improve visibility. With all of your project documents, progress tracking, and BOM management in one place, your BIM team and prefab shop can collaborate easier than ever before.

Learn more about how EVOLVE is helping MEP and construction teams improve communications and align their BIM department and fab shop.

TAKING YOUR PREFAB TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The Future of Prefab Construction

The future of prefab construction is promising. Some of the potential future developments in prefab commercial building include:

Greater use of automation and robotics: Automation and robotics can increase the speed and precision of prefabrication, making it even more efficient and cost-effective than it currently is. This can lead to faster construction times and reduced labor costs, which can be particularly beneficial in commercial building projects.

Increased use of 3D printing: 3D printing technology can be used to fabricate prefab components such as walls, roofs, and floors, which can help to reduce material waste and increase the precision of prefabrication. This can lead to more efficient and sustainable construction processes, as well as higher-quality buildings.

More sustainable materials and methods: Prefab commercial building can already reduce waste and material consumption, but the industry could improve even further with the use of sustainable materials, such as those made from recycled materials, and the use of new techniques such as mass-timber to minimize the environmental footprint of the construction process. Greater use of BIM (Building Information Modelling) technology: BIM is a digital tool that allows for the coordination and collaboration of all project participants to work together in the design and construction process. This can increase the efficiency of prefab commercial building and improve the precision of prefabrication.

Expansion of prefab for high-rise buildings: With advancements in technology and material science prefab construction will allow for more efficient and cost-effective building of high-rise structures. This can include the use of modular systems and volumetric construction which can greatly speed up the construction time and reduce costs while ensuring the building meets the necessary safety and quality requirements.

The future of prefab commercial building looks bright as advancements in technology and materials continue to push the boundaries of what can be done with prefab construction. The industry will continue to improve efficiency, precision, and sustainability while expanding the use of prefab for high-rise structures. This will result in a faster, more environmentally friendly and more cost-effective building process. Companies will be able to complete projects faster, allowing them to move on to other ventures and generating revenue earlier which can be a significant benefit for the commercial building industry.

Get Ahead of the Curve and Take Your Prefab to the Next Level

As more and more organizations adopt prefab strategies, new innovations to the process are being introduced. To take your prefab construction to the next level, consider implementing some of the following strategies:

  • Using advanced building materials: Utilize new and innovative materials that are stronger, more energy-efficient, and more sustainable.
  • Focusing on modular design: Incorporating modular design principles can make it easier to assemble and disassemble structures, making them more adaptable to changing needs.
  • Prioritizing sustainability: Incorporating green building practices, such as using renewable energy sources, can help make prefab buildings more environmentally friendly
  • Considering prefabricated systems: Prefabricated systems such as Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) can help speed up the construction process and improve energy efficiency.
  • Incorporating technology: Use technology such as Building information modeling (BIM) and 3D printing to streamline the design and construction process. With the power of EVOLVE behind them MEP contractors can improve their accuracy, reduce errors and rework, and increase profitability by providing tools for estimating, cost tracking, and change management. Get a demo with EVOLVE today to learn more.

Now that we know the importance of having software to support your construction projects and prefab, let’s examine some important things to consider as you shop for a construction management platform

Key Things to Consider When Shopping for Construction Technology

We have examined the benefits of prefab, and discussed the ways construction software can improve the quality of your projects and keep you aligned with your budget and timeline goals. Now it’s time to dive into how you can find the right technology for your team.

Choosing the right technology for construction management depends on the specific needs and goals of the project. Some key factors to consider when making this decision include:

Scalability: The technology should be able to accommodate the size and complexity of the project, as well as the needs of different stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, and contractors.

Integrations: The technology should be able to integrate with other systems and tools that the organization is already using, such as accounting software, project management platforms, and design tools.

User-friendliness: The technology should be easy to use and understand for all stakeholders, including those with limited technical expertise.

Cost: The technology should be cost-effective and provide a good return on investment.

Features: The technology should have the features and functionalities that are necessary to effectively manage the construction project, such as project scheduling, budgeting, and document management.

EVOLVE is a preferred software option for MEP contractors and fab shops across the U.S. EVOLVE includes tools for fabrication and fabrication management, which can help MEP contractors plan, organize, and manage the fabrication of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Additional features include generating cut lists and bills of materials, tracking work cell progress, and managing inventory. EVOLVE is a great option for most teams.

Read the next section for case studies from some of EVOLVE’s top customers.

PREFAB CASE STUDIES

Here are a few examples of how well-known construction organizations that are using prefabricated construction methods to deliver top-tier projects:

Cupertino Electric

Cupertino Electric is a trusted electrical contractor based out of San Jose, California. They used prefabrication to improve efficiency and quality is the construction of the San Francisco 49ers Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Cupertino Electric was able to deliver the 1.8 million square-foot project ahead of schedule by leveraging prefab. Many of the electrical systems for the stadium were composed off-site, which allowed them to complete the work more quickly and with fewer errors.

The Baker Group

The Baker Group is well-known in the mechanical contractor industry for their high-quality commercial projects. In 2017 they opened Baker Group Advanced Manufacturing, a 144,000 square-foot prefab facility. And every year since they continue to invest in the facilities and increase their use of prefab.

One example of how they are using their prefab shop is to create plumbing systems. Baker Group can build the plumbing system off-site, then perform hydro-tests to ensure the quality of the build. Waste water is also tested before the assembly is broken into several pieces for deliver to the job.

Rosendin Electric

Rosendin Electric, one of the largest electrical contractors in the U.S, understands the benefits of prefab. Their prefabrication and BIM teams work closely together to quickly bring digital models to life with quality build. They aim to have 50% of components prefabricated on any given projec

In 2021, Rosendin completely renovated the 900,000 sq. ft. space at the G30 Whittle School in Washington D.C. With the power of prefab they were able to complete and install over 570,000 sq. ft. of lighting, fire alarm systems, and power infrastructures in just 22 months.

Cupertino Electric, The Baker Group, and Rosendin Electric are all using EVOLVE products to benefit their BIM department, shop managers, and ultimately their team in the field. With EVOLVE’s comprehensive software on your side, your team will see a reduction in errors, delays, and rework on projects, and an increase in profitability

Prefabrication Resources

Check out more resources to learn more about the prefabrication industry.

The Benefits of Prefab
  1. Prefab for Time and Cost Savings
  2. Prefab for Improved Safety
  3. Prefab for Environmental Benefits
The World of Prefab
  1. Different Types of Prefab Construction Methods
  2. Prefab Construction for Various Types of Buildings
  3. The Top Prefab Construction Trends in 2023
Managing a Prefab Project
  1. How to Effectively Plan and Manage a Prefab Construction
    Project
  2. The Process of Constructing a Prefab Building
  3. The Importance of Proper Prefab Construction Site
    Preparation
  4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Prefab Construction
    Methods
  5. Maintenance and Upkeep of Prefab Building
  6. The Role of Quality Control in Prefab Construction
  7. How to Align your BIM and Fab Shop Teams
The Future of Prefab
  1. Get Ahead of the Curve- Take Your Prefab to the Next Level
  2. Key Things to Consider When Shopping for Construction
    Technology
Prefab Stories
  1. Prefab Stories – Case Studies

Prefabrication Blogs