In this blog from Dassault Systemes, discover how integration-ready construction modules transform the value chain by accelerating the design and delivery of unique, sustainable buildings.

The architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is at the precipice of transformation. Pressed with demands for speed, sustainability and personalisation, leaders have begun to rethink how to best deliver value. Some have turned to prefabrication to move construction processes off site and into prefab shops, but they’re still burdened by logistical issues, increased costs and siloed trades.

A radically different strategy offers a unique opportunity for general contractors, specialty contractors and manufacturers to transform the entire construction ecosystem for the better. “Integration-ready construction modules”, defined by multi-trade assemblies, standardised interfaces and generative variants, are at the heart of this new approach. When integration-ready modules are designed and produced independently of projects, or “off-cycle”, the immense scalability and value of productisation come into play without compromising on variability and customization.

Productisation, enabled by virtual twin technology, empowers construction players across the entire value chain to design and construct personalised and sustainable buildings faster.

A Better Strategy With Productisation

Integration-ready modules are vital elements of productisation. This approach leverages the virtual construction twin — a digitally accurate representation of a development’s physical processes and components, updated in real time. The virtual twin experience goes beyond building information modeling (BIM) applications by providing a structural view of a project and a systems view for managing the entire design, engineering, product manufacturing and construction process.

With the virtual twin on the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform, construction leaders can implement a new productisation strategy that helps them:

As productisation becomes more widespread, general contractors risk losing 25% of their value because owners will collaborate more closely with specialty contractors through virtual construction twins. But evolving into “prime integrators” helps general contractors overcome disintermediation. Prime integrators manage site logistics, master new procurement approaches and collaborate with “virtual makers” – specialty contractors who have virtualised their craft – to ensure integration excellence.

Delve Into Integration-Ready Modules

Integration-ready construction modules are fundamental for productisation. These custom “building blocks” use generative design tools to offer a high degree of configurability for unique building designs — unlike traditional modular buildings.

Virtual makers can expand their product libraries and generate tailor-made shapes consisting of integration-ready modules. Manufacturing and assembling these modules in microfactories accelerate sustainable construction while significantly reducing costs.

Virtual twin technology on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform helps construction leaders transform their entire ecosystem by leveraging integration-ready modules to advance the path to productisation. With virtual construction twins on a connected platform, contractors can break free from trade-based constraints, pioneer sustainable construction and position themselves as a disruptive new leader in a changing industry.

For more information, check out this video.