ABSTRACT
Prefabrication/modular construction is critical for construction productivity, increasing its speed, efficiency and overall safety, while reducing environmental impacts. A review was conducted on relevant academic and industrial data concerning prefabrication/modular construction. An exploratory questionnaire survey of Indian and Portuguese construction practitioners was then conducted to get practitioners’ views and opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of offsite construction, as well practitioners’ forecasts on the future growth of the offsite construction sector in both countries. The large majority of practitioners are aware of the possibilities and potential of offsite construction, and most of them are familiar with its advantages and disadvantages. Findings suggest that most practitioners know the possibilities and potential of offsite construction, and most of them also recognize the advantages and disadvantages of its use. Recommendations for future highlight the need to further progress towards standardization and user-driven digital customization in offsite prefabrication factories.
