Our DfMA journey.
The diagram below is one we often use to explain Platform construction.In the centre are the physical elements: superstructure, envelope, fit out and MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing).
Surrounding these are the supporting activities and tools which inform and leverage the physical components: spatial analysis, digital tools, and delivery.. ‘Spatial Analysis’.uses data from projects or programmes to create insight into what should be included in the physical ‘kit of parts’.This will help to ‘develop and adopt shared requirements and common standards’ as described in the ‘harmonise, digitise and rationalise’ policy.. Spatial Analysis considers the requirements of the spaces that make up assets (lighting, air change rates, thermal comfort, acoustics and so on).
It also includes details of the technical performance of the physical components that make them..This is a key step in defining a Platform but also in creating a digital marketplace.
Specifications like these provide a precise and consistent brief for manufacturers to respond to.
They provide an objective way to compare and choose between products.. As we move away from procuring for lowest cost and start to make more value-based judgements, this becomes even more important.The Building Research Establishment (BRE), dealing with the quality and assurance aspects..
The Centre for Digital Built Britain (CDBB), handling information management and the need for data in order to foster learning in everything we do, and to do things in a more efficient and effective way..The opportunity for this sort of package was recognized in the 2017 Industrial Strategy.
This was a significant step because the problems facing construction are long-standing and well known.During the last few decades, while other large industries have gone through transformational levels of change, the construction industry has remained relatively static.