Modelling design stage risks in modular integrated construction projects in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Modular integrated Construction (MiC) as a promising construction method has instigated significant advancements in the construction industry, especially in developed countries. However, the MiC has been becoming popular in developing countries such as Sri Lanka given its potential to improve construction efficiency, reduce cost and waste, and enhance quality. The design stage is considered critical in MiC since design errors can propagate to manufacturing and assembly issues and entire project failure. Further, as the Sri Lankan construction industry is in the preliminary stages of MiC implementation, the most risk-exposing stage is the design stage. Therefore, it is essential to explore the design stage risks (DSRs) affecting MiC in Sri Lanka to enable timely decision-making to withstand the potential risks in its implementation. Under these circumstances, this study proposed and developed a Social Network Analysis (SNA) model to identify the most critical DSRs and their co-relational impacts by probing and assessing the data collected through an industry expert survey. The findings revealed that the inaccuracy of design information, inadequate planning for design and unclear design specifications are the most critical DSRs in MiC initiation in Sri Lanka among the identified 14 total risks. Further, three significant risk categories were determined, and the co-relational impact of each risk was assessed as depicted in the SNA model. Moreover, the study findings would motivate industry professionals to appreciate and address the critical DSRs in the context of the three respective categories and thereby develop adequate measures to successfully withstand them to boost industrial performance.