Modular Construction and Parametric Design: The Technology Adoption Curve

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On paper, almost anything seems possible, until we face reality. While the idea of developing software capable of transforming any project into a modular building, regardless of its original structure or form, is a promising avenue for both the construction and software industries, we must acknowledge a crucial fact: industrial capacity is key. Without a robust industrial foundation, the software would remain little more than an impressive proof of concept.

This raises an important question: Is today’s construction industry equipped to produce at the speed, scale, and cost required to make this vision viable?

Understanding the technology adoption curve provides valuable insight. This model explains how consumers adopt new technologies or products and how it often intersects with the cost curve. At the early stages of adoption, when only a small percentage of users engage with the technology, costs tend to be high due to research, development, and innovation efforts. It’s not until the early majority, around 34% of the market, embraces the technology that costs begin to stabilize, making it competitive enough for the late majority, which represents another 34%.

With this in mind, the project must evaluate whether current industrial capabilities can support the level of flexibility needed. Are there manufacturing processes and machinery available today that can adapt to varying shapes, dimensions, and performance requirements as seamlessly as the software promises?

While this industrial feasibility study is ongoing, our focus remains on advancing the software development and interoperability between existing BIM tools. This effort is not only a technically stimulating challenge but also a critical step toward creating a comprehensive solution for the future.