Challenges hindering industrialized wooden multi-story construction from a contractor's perspective: a case study from Finland

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose Industrialized construction (IC) is growing globally as an alternative and supplemental construction concept. High expectations have been set for IC to solve existing problems in the industry and enhance productivity. This study aims to identify the most intriguing challenges hindering industrialized wooden multi-story construction (WMC) in the Finnish context from a contractor’s perspective.

Design/methodology/approach Methodologically, this study was a qualitative, single-case study with an inductive approach. Data were collected through five semi-structured interviews and analyzed using NVivo software. Observations were coded and classified into 10 categories and finally synthesized into 3 themes.

Findings The results revealed that industrialized WMC companies are generating many innovations, primarily occurring at the company level. However, shortages in product systems and operation models, such as concept inflexibility and insufficient design fidelity and quality control practices, hinder the progress of industrialization. The findings also indicate that within the pre-fabrication context, production capacity management and cash flow management are key control factors in industrialized WMC. Strong variation in regulatory interpretation by authorities creates a significant challenge for IC concept development and project management.

Originality/value This study endorses the existing research findings, highlights a new perspective on challenges in IC and highlights the importance of increasing cooperation between companies engaged in industrialization measures, accelerating the development of individual companies and fostering a more appropriate industry structure.