What is the term for the practice of constructing three-dimensional volumetric units in a plant before transporting them to the site?

The practice of constructing three-dimensional volumetric units in a plant before transporting them to the construction site is known as prefabrication. This approach allows for a significant portion of the construction process to occur off-site, where controlled environments can enhance quality and efficiency. Prefabrication can lead to reduced construction time on site, minimized waste, and often enhanced safety since much of the work is done in a factory setting, reducing exposure to hazards typically present on a job site.

Additionally, this method can provide better quality control due to the ability to carry out processes in a more controlled environment, ensuring that all components meet stringent specifications and standards. Elements such as walls, floors, and entire building modules may be constructed in advance and assembled once they arrive at the job site, further streamlining the construction process.

In contrast, on-site construction refers to building components directly at the location, which can be less efficient and more susceptible to delays. Traditional manufacturing indicates the broader process of producing goods, not specifically the construction context. Modular design is related but focuses more on the design philosophy behind creating pieces that can be easily assembled but does not inherently imply pre-construction in a factory setting.