Christine Pasquire | Retired - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Christine Pasquire

Research paper thumbnail of Development of Approach to Support Construction Stakeholders in Implementation of the Last Planner System

Journal of Management in Engineering, 2019

Implementation of the Last Planner System (LPS) has gained prominence in the construction industr... more Implementation of the Last Planner System (LPS) has gained prominence in the construction industry, and its influence on the production system seems to be rapid and significant. However, recent studies reveal that application of LPS principles on projects is fragmented. The aim of the current study, therefore, is to develop an approach to support construction stakeholders in implementation of the LPS. Thirty semistructured interviews and three in-depth case studies were conducted with construction stakeholders. The authors developed a nonprescriptive but all-inclusive approach for supporting construction stakeholders in implementation of the LPS on construction projects. This study contributes to knowledge in engineering management because it provides new insight into how to apply the LPS holistically in the management of engineering projects. The study further provides evidence regarding current practice and performance of the LPS in the management of civil engineering projects, as demonstrated in the case studies. Finally, identification of the three levels of support (organizational, project, and external enabler) provides a focal point for construction practitioners to focus on in implementation of the LPS in the management of civil engineering projects.

Research paper thumbnail of THE LAST PLANNER ® SYSTEM PATH CLEARING APPROACH IN ACTION: A CASE STUDY

Research paper thumbnail of LEAN CONSTRUCTION AND SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH IGLC COMMUNITY: A CRITICAL SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

26th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, 2018

It has been argued that Lean Construction (LC) offers the conceptual basis and the appropriate me... more It has been argued that Lean Construction (LC) offers the conceptual basis and the appropriate methods and tools needed for helping the construction industry meet the challenges of sustainable development. Since 1998, a growing body of knowledge has been emerging from the IGLC community, in relation to synergies between LC and Sustainability. Both seek to reduce waste and maximise value, but through different approaches and perspectives. The most common mistake, however, is a tool-focused framework for integration, which overlooks the conceptual differences between these two initiatives. The aim of this study, therefore, is to review the progress made in understanding the linkages and inconsistencies between the two initiatives, through conducting a critical systematic literature review (SLR) and synthesising the findings of 'LC and Sustainability' studies published in IGLC conferences over the past 25 years. The findings of the study provide an overview of previous studies about the topic, reveal major limitations in approaches to LC and Sustainable Construction (SC), and divulge significant opportunities for further work that remain unexplored.

Research paper thumbnail of The prospect of minimising production flow waste on construction sites in Nigeria through the Last Planner System.pdf

Poor performance of construction projects is a re-occurring problem in Nigeria. Production flow w... more Poor performance of construction projects is a re-occurring problem in Nigeria. Production flow waste (ranging from waiting time, material handling and overproduction , among others) may be partly responsible for this problem. Meanwhile, very little is known about the role of the Last Planner System (LPS) in minimising production flow waste in Nigeria. The current study examines the manifestation of production flow wastes on Nigerian construction sites, identifies current construction practices that bear resemblance to the LPS, and finally, examines the prospects of the LPS concepts in minimising production flow waste in the corresponding construction projects. A mixed research design that uses a quantitative cross-sectional survey and qualitative-exploratory approach was used in collecting data from construction professionals based in Nigeria. Fifty-one survey responses were received and 10 interviews were conducted. The study reveals various incidences and contributory factors to production flow waste, with the long approval process being the most prevalent. It also identifies current practices that are similar to the LPS practices. The prospect of the LPS in production flow waste management for improved productivity is also explored. The study concludes that the LPS concept has the potential for minimising production flow waste in the construction process and improving productivity in the Nigeria construction industry.

Research paper thumbnail of Contractual governance as a source of institutionalised waste in construction: a review, implications, and road map for future research directions

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, 2017

Purpose - The construction industry has been subject to substantial criticism for its short term... more Purpose - The construction industry has been subject to substantial criticism for its short term “hit-and-run” relationships which are focused on win-lose situations. Despite the wide recognition of these problems the industry persistently resists the radical demanded of it. Therefore, the main purposes of this study are twofold. First, to investigate why this might be the case by reviewing the governance problem confronting clients and decision makers in construction procurement, as conceptualised in Transaction Cost Economics (TCE). Secondly, to critically analyse and question the efficiency and effectiveness of various safeguarding approaches, which are taken for granted and commonly practiced in construction, from a lean perspective

Research paper thumbnail of The relationship between the Last Planner System and collaborative planning practice in UK construction.pdf

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify how the newly emerging UK practice of “Collabo... more Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify how the newly emerging UK practice of “Collaborative Planning” (CP) for construction project delivery aligns with the advocated principles of the Last Planner System (LPS) of production planning and control. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed, qualitative, exploratory approach was adopted for the study. This entailed qualitative data through three techniques, namely: semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and structured observation. Thirty in-depth-interviews were conducted over a 12 month period with lean construction consultants, clients, main contractors, and subcontractors drawn from the building, highways and infrastructure and rail sector. Fifteen projects were visited where practices were observed. Findings – The study reveals that the current practice of CP in the UK partially aligns with the LPS principles. Where practitioners have heard of the LPS they believe it to be the same practice as CP. Limitation: This study is limited to 30 interviews, observation of 15 projects and document analysis. The aim of the study is not to generalise the findings, however, since the study examined top construction companies and practitioners in the UK and the findings were consistent across the sample, some conclusions could be made. The study is also limited to examining the construction phase only, future studies should incorporate the design phase. Practical Implication- A clear identification of the elements of current practice compared to the components of the LPS provides a contribution to the future practice of project production planning and management in the construction industry. Social implication – The study highlights a continuing resistance to collaboration within the industry. This resistance is subtly embedded within implemented practices even though they are based on collaborative working for their success. Originality and Value – This is among the first studies in the UK that comprehensively examines and reports the application of Last Planner System/Collaborative Planning practice in construction across the major construction sectors. Future studies could build on the findings from this work to develop an approach/methodology to improve the current practice.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Digital Information for Hybrid Project Design

Research paper thumbnail of Adaptable Buildings: Technological tools for hybrid settings

Research paper thumbnail of EXPLORING THE EFFICACY OF DIGITAL TOOLS FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF HYBRID BUILDINGS

Exploring the efficacy of digital tools for the design and construction of hybrid buildings. Hybr... more Exploring the efficacy of digital tools for the design and construction of hybrid buildings. Hybrid buildings are defined as buildings that combine both new and old elements for reasons such as expansion, rehabilitation, redevelopment and regeneration. The advantage to maintaining building value and facilities management are also discussed. The research project described seeks to explore digital tools such as photogrammetry as a means of acquiring existing building information in hybrid building design projects.The project is based on the premise that 'as built' information acquired using digital tools can be combined in a mixed-reality modelling environment for interpretation, analysis and use as part of a digital architecture process, thereby providing an homologous and flexible data source at minimal expense in time and cost. Discussed are the methodologies proposed for this research.

Research paper thumbnail of The growing case for lean construction

Construction Research & Innovation

Projects in the US and UK that used Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) with Target Value Design (T... more Projects in the US and UK that used Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) with Target Value Design (TVD) were brought in as much as 19 percent below market cost and expected costs actually fell as design and construction progressed. Here Alan Mossman, Glenn Ballard and Christine Pasquire describe some of these projects, outline why the underlying ideas are applicable more widely and suggest further research

Research paper thumbnail of Lean Project Delivery —  innovation in integrated design & delivery

"Purpose: To review the state-of-the-art of Lean Project Delivery (LPD), to show the relationship... more "Purpose: To review the state-of-the-art of Lean Project Delivery (LPD), to show the relationship between LPD and integrated design and delivery (particularly the IDDS element ‘collaborative processes’) and to propose further stages of development, research and practice.
Method: Description and analysis of action research & learning in current practice.
Findings: In the context of Lean Project Delivery with Target Value Design (TVD) projects are completed below market cost—so far as much as 19% below and expected cost falls as design and construction progresses.
Limitations: this work is based on a limited number of linked cases in the US over the last 10 years. We suggest the ideas are applicable far more widely.
Implications: there is still more development and research required to develop effective leadership models for integrated design and delivery, create whole of life Target Value Design, to create significant bodies of evidence to guide the design of many building types and to further develop the Lean Project Delivery System.
Value for practitioners: initial indications are that the methods described work together to deliver significant benefits for owners/clients/end-users and create a more satisfying experience for most designers and constructors.
Keywords: Target Value Design, lean construction, lean project delivery, allowable cost, target cost, value, evidence-based design, A3, set-based design, collaboration, early constructor involvement, integrated form of agreement, integrated project delivery, value management, IDDS"

Research paper thumbnail of Benefit evaluation for off‐site production in construction

Construction Management and Economics, 2006

Evaluating to what extent a component or building system should be produced off‐site is inadequat... more Evaluating to what extent a component or building system should be produced off‐site is inadequate within the industry. The potential benefits of off‐site production (OSP) are commonly cited when justifying an OSP approach, yet holistic and methodical assessments of the applicability and overall benefit of these solutions, to a particular project, have been found to be deficient. Common methods of

Research paper thumbnail of TOWARDS ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH ADAPTABLE BUILDINGS

The existing building stock in most countries does not meet the parameters of economic, social an... more The existing building stock in most countries does not meet the parameters of economic, social and environmental sustainability. Physical, functional, technological, economical, social and legal obsolescence are the principal factors driving the decommissioning, refurbishment, alteration and/or adaptation of a building. In the UK the Government promotes optimum use of the existing building stock through mixed use in urban centers and

Research paper thumbnail of SOCIAL HOUSING IN CHILE: OPPORTUNITIES TO APPLY VALUE CONCEPT IN EARLY STAGE OF PROJECTS

Research paper thumbnail of Visualisation and Rapid Manufacturing A survey of architecture practise in the UK

Research paper thumbnail of AN INFORMATION-LED PROCESS FRAMEWORK FOR HYBRID PROJECTS

Research paper thumbnail of What should you really measure if you want to compare prefabrication with traditional construction?

This paper presents the final part of the IMMPREST4 toolkit, describing in detail the measurement... more This paper presents the final part of the IMMPREST4 toolkit, describing in detail the measurement of risks and benefits of using prefabrication within a construction project. Based on extensive research in the UK and against a background of rising interest in prefabrication as a construction solution, this paper reinforces the need to make informed decisions which have auditable processes if the complexities of comparison are to be fully understood. The model field trials raise many questions about existing cost focussed approaches revealing barriers to innovation of any sort including the integration of Lean Thinking into construction. This paper builds on the work presented in three previous IGLC conferences.

Research paper thumbnail of BRIEF DEVELOPMENT ORIGINATORS, VALUE AND RISK SOURCES TO THE PROJECT FROM THE CLIENT'S PERSPECTIVE

Achieving client satisfaction as a key measure for construction projects success necessitated the... more Achieving client satisfaction as a key measure for construction projects success necessitated the importance to build clear understanding of the drivers that lead to brief development. 30 brief development drivers were identified, quantified and classified. In order to complete the picture of these drivers and understand how could the project team members affect or get affected by the brief development drivers, this paper presents the results of a group interview undertake with clients' organizations, that responded to the quantifying questionnaire, to investigate the relationship between the brief development drivers and the project team members. Definitions of the originators of brief development, value sources and risk sources to the project form the client's perspective will be presented. New interpretations of the role of different project team members will be explained. This will enable clients' organizations and construction professionals utilize these relationshi...

Research paper thumbnail of Considerations for assessing the benefits of standardisation and pre-assembly in construction

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction

Research paper thumbnail of METHODS FOR MEASURING THE "UNMEASURABLE": EVALUATING THE BENEFITS OF PRE-ASSEMBLY AND STANDARDIZATION IN CONSTRUCTION

The decision to use pre-assembly and standardization is often not made early enough in the constr... more The decision to use pre-assembly and standardization is often not made early enough in the construction design process. If traditional designs have to be adapted at a later stage, this is clearly inefficient. There is a reluctance among clients and contractors within the construction industry to adopt recent government and industry initiatives and employ new technologies because they cannot see the "Pay Back". This paper describes the research being undertaken to develop a methodology for measuring the benefits of pre-assembly and standardization for construction projects from feasibility, through design and construction, to handover, operation and decommissioning. The paper describes and classifies the benefits of pre-assembly and standardization and then outlines the tools and techniques available in construction and other industries for measuring the benefits. While some benefits are measurable in monetary or non-monetary terms, other benefits have an influence on the s...

Research paper thumbnail of Development of Approach to Support Construction Stakeholders in Implementation of the Last Planner System

Journal of Management in Engineering, 2019

Implementation of the Last Planner System (LPS) has gained prominence in the construction industr... more Implementation of the Last Planner System (LPS) has gained prominence in the construction industry, and its influence on the production system seems to be rapid and significant. However, recent studies reveal that application of LPS principles on projects is fragmented. The aim of the current study, therefore, is to develop an approach to support construction stakeholders in implementation of the LPS. Thirty semistructured interviews and three in-depth case studies were conducted with construction stakeholders. The authors developed a nonprescriptive but all-inclusive approach for supporting construction stakeholders in implementation of the LPS on construction projects. This study contributes to knowledge in engineering management because it provides new insight into how to apply the LPS holistically in the management of engineering projects. The study further provides evidence regarding current practice and performance of the LPS in the management of civil engineering projects, as demonstrated in the case studies. Finally, identification of the three levels of support (organizational, project, and external enabler) provides a focal point for construction practitioners to focus on in implementation of the LPS in the management of civil engineering projects.

Research paper thumbnail of THE LAST PLANNER ® SYSTEM PATH CLEARING APPROACH IN ACTION: A CASE STUDY

Research paper thumbnail of LEAN CONSTRUCTION AND SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH IGLC COMMUNITY: A CRITICAL SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

26th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, 2018

It has been argued that Lean Construction (LC) offers the conceptual basis and the appropriate me... more It has been argued that Lean Construction (LC) offers the conceptual basis and the appropriate methods and tools needed for helping the construction industry meet the challenges of sustainable development. Since 1998, a growing body of knowledge has been emerging from the IGLC community, in relation to synergies between LC and Sustainability. Both seek to reduce waste and maximise value, but through different approaches and perspectives. The most common mistake, however, is a tool-focused framework for integration, which overlooks the conceptual differences between these two initiatives. The aim of this study, therefore, is to review the progress made in understanding the linkages and inconsistencies between the two initiatives, through conducting a critical systematic literature review (SLR) and synthesising the findings of 'LC and Sustainability' studies published in IGLC conferences over the past 25 years. The findings of the study provide an overview of previous studies about the topic, reveal major limitations in approaches to LC and Sustainable Construction (SC), and divulge significant opportunities for further work that remain unexplored.

Research paper thumbnail of The prospect of minimising production flow waste on construction sites in Nigeria through the Last Planner System.pdf

Poor performance of construction projects is a re-occurring problem in Nigeria. Production flow w... more Poor performance of construction projects is a re-occurring problem in Nigeria. Production flow waste (ranging from waiting time, material handling and overproduction , among others) may be partly responsible for this problem. Meanwhile, very little is known about the role of the Last Planner System (LPS) in minimising production flow waste in Nigeria. The current study examines the manifestation of production flow wastes on Nigerian construction sites, identifies current construction practices that bear resemblance to the LPS, and finally, examines the prospects of the LPS concepts in minimising production flow waste in the corresponding construction projects. A mixed research design that uses a quantitative cross-sectional survey and qualitative-exploratory approach was used in collecting data from construction professionals based in Nigeria. Fifty-one survey responses were received and 10 interviews were conducted. The study reveals various incidences and contributory factors to production flow waste, with the long approval process being the most prevalent. It also identifies current practices that are similar to the LPS practices. The prospect of the LPS in production flow waste management for improved productivity is also explored. The study concludes that the LPS concept has the potential for minimising production flow waste in the construction process and improving productivity in the Nigeria construction industry.

Research paper thumbnail of Contractual governance as a source of institutionalised waste in construction: a review, implications, and road map for future research directions

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, 2017

Purpose - The construction industry has been subject to substantial criticism for its short term... more Purpose - The construction industry has been subject to substantial criticism for its short term “hit-and-run” relationships which are focused on win-lose situations. Despite the wide recognition of these problems the industry persistently resists the radical demanded of it. Therefore, the main purposes of this study are twofold. First, to investigate why this might be the case by reviewing the governance problem confronting clients and decision makers in construction procurement, as conceptualised in Transaction Cost Economics (TCE). Secondly, to critically analyse and question the efficiency and effectiveness of various safeguarding approaches, which are taken for granted and commonly practiced in construction, from a lean perspective

Research paper thumbnail of The relationship between the Last Planner System and collaborative planning practice in UK construction.pdf

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify how the newly emerging UK practice of “Collabo... more Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify how the newly emerging UK practice of “Collaborative Planning” (CP) for construction project delivery aligns with the advocated principles of the Last Planner System (LPS) of production planning and control. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed, qualitative, exploratory approach was adopted for the study. This entailed qualitative data through three techniques, namely: semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and structured observation. Thirty in-depth-interviews were conducted over a 12 month period with lean construction consultants, clients, main contractors, and subcontractors drawn from the building, highways and infrastructure and rail sector. Fifteen projects were visited where practices were observed. Findings – The study reveals that the current practice of CP in the UK partially aligns with the LPS principles. Where practitioners have heard of the LPS they believe it to be the same practice as CP. Limitation: This study is limited to 30 interviews, observation of 15 projects and document analysis. The aim of the study is not to generalise the findings, however, since the study examined top construction companies and practitioners in the UK and the findings were consistent across the sample, some conclusions could be made. The study is also limited to examining the construction phase only, future studies should incorporate the design phase. Practical Implication- A clear identification of the elements of current practice compared to the components of the LPS provides a contribution to the future practice of project production planning and management in the construction industry. Social implication – The study highlights a continuing resistance to collaboration within the industry. This resistance is subtly embedded within implemented practices even though they are based on collaborative working for their success. Originality and Value – This is among the first studies in the UK that comprehensively examines and reports the application of Last Planner System/Collaborative Planning practice in construction across the major construction sectors. Future studies could build on the findings from this work to develop an approach/methodology to improve the current practice.

Research paper thumbnail of Using Digital Information for Hybrid Project Design

Research paper thumbnail of Adaptable Buildings: Technological tools for hybrid settings

Research paper thumbnail of EXPLORING THE EFFICACY OF DIGITAL TOOLS FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF HYBRID BUILDINGS

Exploring the efficacy of digital tools for the design and construction of hybrid buildings. Hybr... more Exploring the efficacy of digital tools for the design and construction of hybrid buildings. Hybrid buildings are defined as buildings that combine both new and old elements for reasons such as expansion, rehabilitation, redevelopment and regeneration. The advantage to maintaining building value and facilities management are also discussed. The research project described seeks to explore digital tools such as photogrammetry as a means of acquiring existing building information in hybrid building design projects.The project is based on the premise that 'as built' information acquired using digital tools can be combined in a mixed-reality modelling environment for interpretation, analysis and use as part of a digital architecture process, thereby providing an homologous and flexible data source at minimal expense in time and cost. Discussed are the methodologies proposed for this research.

Research paper thumbnail of The growing case for lean construction

Construction Research & Innovation

Projects in the US and UK that used Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) with Target Value Design (T... more Projects in the US and UK that used Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) with Target Value Design (TVD) were brought in as much as 19 percent below market cost and expected costs actually fell as design and construction progressed. Here Alan Mossman, Glenn Ballard and Christine Pasquire describe some of these projects, outline why the underlying ideas are applicable more widely and suggest further research

Research paper thumbnail of Lean Project Delivery —  innovation in integrated design & delivery

"Purpose: To review the state-of-the-art of Lean Project Delivery (LPD), to show the relationship... more "Purpose: To review the state-of-the-art of Lean Project Delivery (LPD), to show the relationship between LPD and integrated design and delivery (particularly the IDDS element ‘collaborative processes’) and to propose further stages of development, research and practice.
Method: Description and analysis of action research & learning in current practice.
Findings: In the context of Lean Project Delivery with Target Value Design (TVD) projects are completed below market cost—so far as much as 19% below and expected cost falls as design and construction progresses.
Limitations: this work is based on a limited number of linked cases in the US over the last 10 years. We suggest the ideas are applicable far more widely.
Implications: there is still more development and research required to develop effective leadership models for integrated design and delivery, create whole of life Target Value Design, to create significant bodies of evidence to guide the design of many building types and to further develop the Lean Project Delivery System.
Value for practitioners: initial indications are that the methods described work together to deliver significant benefits for owners/clients/end-users and create a more satisfying experience for most designers and constructors.
Keywords: Target Value Design, lean construction, lean project delivery, allowable cost, target cost, value, evidence-based design, A3, set-based design, collaboration, early constructor involvement, integrated form of agreement, integrated project delivery, value management, IDDS"

Research paper thumbnail of Benefit evaluation for off‐site production in construction

Construction Management and Economics, 2006

Evaluating to what extent a component or building system should be produced off‐site is inadequat... more Evaluating to what extent a component or building system should be produced off‐site is inadequate within the industry. The potential benefits of off‐site production (OSP) are commonly cited when justifying an OSP approach, yet holistic and methodical assessments of the applicability and overall benefit of these solutions, to a particular project, have been found to be deficient. Common methods of

Research paper thumbnail of TOWARDS ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH ADAPTABLE BUILDINGS

The existing building stock in most countries does not meet the parameters of economic, social an... more The existing building stock in most countries does not meet the parameters of economic, social and environmental sustainability. Physical, functional, technological, economical, social and legal obsolescence are the principal factors driving the decommissioning, refurbishment, alteration and/or adaptation of a building. In the UK the Government promotes optimum use of the existing building stock through mixed use in urban centers and

Research paper thumbnail of SOCIAL HOUSING IN CHILE: OPPORTUNITIES TO APPLY VALUE CONCEPT IN EARLY STAGE OF PROJECTS

Research paper thumbnail of Visualisation and Rapid Manufacturing A survey of architecture practise in the UK

Research paper thumbnail of AN INFORMATION-LED PROCESS FRAMEWORK FOR HYBRID PROJECTS

Research paper thumbnail of What should you really measure if you want to compare prefabrication with traditional construction?

This paper presents the final part of the IMMPREST4 toolkit, describing in detail the measurement... more This paper presents the final part of the IMMPREST4 toolkit, describing in detail the measurement of risks and benefits of using prefabrication within a construction project. Based on extensive research in the UK and against a background of rising interest in prefabrication as a construction solution, this paper reinforces the need to make informed decisions which have auditable processes if the complexities of comparison are to be fully understood. The model field trials raise many questions about existing cost focussed approaches revealing barriers to innovation of any sort including the integration of Lean Thinking into construction. This paper builds on the work presented in three previous IGLC conferences.

Research paper thumbnail of BRIEF DEVELOPMENT ORIGINATORS, VALUE AND RISK SOURCES TO THE PROJECT FROM THE CLIENT'S PERSPECTIVE

Achieving client satisfaction as a key measure for construction projects success necessitated the... more Achieving client satisfaction as a key measure for construction projects success necessitated the importance to build clear understanding of the drivers that lead to brief development. 30 brief development drivers were identified, quantified and classified. In order to complete the picture of these drivers and understand how could the project team members affect or get affected by the brief development drivers, this paper presents the results of a group interview undertake with clients' organizations, that responded to the quantifying questionnaire, to investigate the relationship between the brief development drivers and the project team members. Definitions of the originators of brief development, value sources and risk sources to the project form the client's perspective will be presented. New interpretations of the role of different project team members will be explained. This will enable clients' organizations and construction professionals utilize these relationshi...

Research paper thumbnail of Considerations for assessing the benefits of standardisation and pre-assembly in construction

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction

Research paper thumbnail of METHODS FOR MEASURING THE "UNMEASURABLE": EVALUATING THE BENEFITS OF PRE-ASSEMBLY AND STANDARDIZATION IN CONSTRUCTION

The decision to use pre-assembly and standardization is often not made early enough in the constr... more The decision to use pre-assembly and standardization is often not made early enough in the construction design process. If traditional designs have to be adapted at a later stage, this is clearly inefficient. There is a reluctance among clients and contractors within the construction industry to adopt recent government and industry initiatives and employ new technologies because they cannot see the "Pay Back". This paper describes the research being undertaken to develop a methodology for measuring the benefits of pre-assembly and standardization for construction projects from feasibility, through design and construction, to handover, operation and decommissioning. The paper describes and classifies the benefits of pre-assembly and standardization and then outlines the tools and techniques available in construction and other industries for measuring the benefits. While some benefits are measurable in monetary or non-monetary terms, other benefits have an influence on the s...