Systematic key performance indicators for measuring modular integrated construction

Abstract

Modular integrated construction (MiC) has been introduced in building construction for achieving sustainable development. As MiC disruptively transforms the construction process compared with conventional construction, it is imperative to systematically understand its performance, which, however, has not been sufficiently reported in previous literature. Therefore, this paper aims to develop a new framework of key performance indicators (KPIs) for project stakeholders to comprehensively measure and effectively benchmark the performance of MiC projects. This framework is developed based on the concept of sustainable construction that covers social, environmental and economic aspects. Through a comprehensive literature review, expert interviews and a focus group meeting, 32 KPIs are established in the three sustainability aspects. An eight-step process is suggested for project stakeholders to adopt these KPIs to measure MiC performance in three tiers – that is, overall building, off-site and on-site works and modular works. A case study is then presented, which demonstrates that the framework is effective in measuring the sustainability of MiC and applicable for comparing MiC with conventional practices. The framework fills the knowledge gap of performance measurement on modular building construction and contributes a methodological foundation for the future quantitative benchmarking of MiC sustainability.