Development of implementation strategies for offsite construction techniques in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Offsite construction is considered as a new method of building in Saudi Arabia in comparison to other countries. The aim of this research was to examine the main factors affecting offsite construction in Saudi Arabia in order to propose a feasible strategy for its wider implementation. To achieve the research aim, the researcher adopted a mixed method approach, combining semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. This paper presents the findings from the survey; the interview findings will be discussed in another publication. The questionnaire survey revealed that an increase in labour productivity and product quality as well as an overall reduction in project schedule are the main benefits of offsite construction. However, there are many challenges facing offsite construction in Saudi Arabia, including inflexibility in making on-site changes, limited design options, associated costs and risks, low awareness and resistance to offsite construction techniques (OCT).