Modular Construction Methods (MCM) have gained increasing attention globally over the past few decades, with substantial adoption in developed countries. However, their implementation in developing nations remains limited. This gap has necessitated the present study, which aims to identify and evaluate the challenges hindering the adoption of MCM in South Africa and to highlight key enablers that can facilitate its implementation. A quantitative research approach was employed using a structured questionnaire survey targeting South African construction industry professionals. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. The findings revealed that the dominance of conventional construction practices, the lack of specialised contractors, the absence of clear policies regulating MCM, and the lack of government subsidies are the most significant challenges. Meanwhile, the most critical enablers include regular employee training, increased industry knowledge sharing, the establishment of dedicated MCM research funding, and the development of supportive policies and codes. The insights from this study offer valuable guidance to construction stakeholders in developing countries, particularly in planning and risk mitigation related to MCM adoption. These findings contribute to strategic efforts to enhance the uptake of innovative construction methods to address industry inefficiencies, sustainability objectives, and housing demands in South Africa.

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Challenges and Enablers for Modular Construction in South Africa

  • Chikezirim Okorafor,
  • Cyril Chinonso Ejidike,
  • Izuchukwu Clement Nwokocha

摘要

Modular Construction Methods (MCM) have gained increasing attention globally over the past few decades, with substantial adoption in developed countries. However, their implementation in developing nations remains limited. This gap has necessitated the present study, which aims to identify and evaluate the challenges hindering the adoption of MCM in South Africa and to highlight key enablers that can facilitate its implementation. A quantitative research approach was employed using a structured questionnaire survey targeting South African construction industry professionals. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. The findings revealed that the dominance of conventional construction practices, the lack of specialised contractors, the absence of clear policies regulating MCM, and the lack of government subsidies are the most significant challenges. Meanwhile, the most critical enablers include regular employee training, increased industry knowledge sharing, the establishment of dedicated MCM research funding, and the development of supportive policies and codes. The insights from this study offer valuable guidance to construction stakeholders in developing countries, particularly in planning and risk mitigation related to MCM adoption. These findings contribute to strategic efforts to enhance the uptake of innovative construction methods to address industry inefficiencies, sustainability objectives, and housing demands in South Africa.