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Historically, the construction sector has centered its activities on a construction context where operations are based on practices involving the incorporation and integration of materials, components, and building systems.

While it is true that technological development and innovation have been observed in some products, it is also a reality that rudimentary, inefficient processes and work practices persist, relying on scarce, low-skilled labor, which reflects a sector that is not very innovative and resistant to change. In fact, despite the existence of innovation in components and products, their integration is done on a project-by-project basis, in a suboptimal manner, without a framework for integrated and continuous improvement, where work is carried out based on designs that are often lacking in detail, and where the quality of execution depends on the competence and experience of the teams. These challenges are exacerbated by a growing shortage of skilled labor, the rapid disappearance of “master craftsmen,” and an environment that holds little appeal for younger generations.

Given this context, it is inevitable to recognize the need for a structured and systemic response. There is an urgent need to implement and operationalize efficient processes in response. And while this need is not new, it takes on a new sense of urgency in light of the current situation. The scale of this challenge becomes more evident when analyzed by analogy with other, more mature industrial sectors. Applying this context to the automotive industry would mean having the same product manufactured in different production facilities, with different components, different manufacturing processes, varying lead times, and differing quality standards—all resulting from the discretion of the teams, their expertise, the “way things have always been done,” the variability of the supply chain, and the unpredictability of the availability of all these factors.

The industrialization of construction signifies a rationale for maximizing operations in a factory environment, supported by efficient and optimized construction systems, making the industrial unit the center of production, innovation, continuous improvement, standardization of procedures, and anticipation and stabilization of supply chains. These industrial and technological hubs will be able to attract qualified, multidisciplinary professionals with skills in different branches of activity to a safer, more collaborative, efficient, and innovative work environment with integrated industrial thinking. Naturally, there are important specificities in the final product of the construction sector (building) when compared to other industries such as the automotive sector. These important specificities—suitability to urban space, functionality, flexibility, and architectural freedom—must be taken into account in this transfer of construction to the factory, but they cannot and should not be an obstacle to a paradigm shift that necessarily revolutionizes the way companies think and organize themselves. These changes necessitate the creation of construction systems and investment in industrial processes that promote the integration of different materials, products, and technologies into processes of operational excellence, fueled by reliable and robust supply chains, integrated into a cooperative environment based on a context of continuous innovation.

Academia and vocational schools have a fundamental role in defining curricula specifically developed for the new industrial mindset. These programs should be developed and taught in close collaboration with companies, enabling the qualification of new professionals with transversal skills, creating conditions for the emergence of new professions in the sector. In this context of structural transformation of the industrial fabric, it is equally necessary to ensure that the regulatory framework keeps pace with this evolution. Thus, legislative, licensing, certification bodies, and professional associations have an essential role in the production and adaptation of legislation that promotes this new industrialization, fostering mandatory characterization and certification of systems and products, as well as requiring certified quality control systems in processes. The industrialization of construction is a powerful tool to address the current challenges of urban housing. When strategically planned, it can contribute to reducing costs, accelerating processes, decreasing environmental impacts, and ensuring greater quality control, while also allowing for customization and adaptability.

Its adoption will allow for a profound transformation of the sector. More than an opportunity, it is an inevitable transformation to ensure the sustainability, efficiency, and future competitiveness of the sector.

Academia and vocational schools have a fundamental role in defining curricula specifically developed for the new industrial thinking. These are programs that should be developed and taught in close proximity to companies and that will allow for the qualification of new professionals with transversal skills.

The industrialization of construction is a powerful tool to respond to the current challenges of housing in cities. When strategically planned, it can contribute to reducing costs, accelerating processes, and decreasing environmental impacts.

NUNO NEVES, Executive Administrator | Bysteel a dstgroup company