Product Configuration – Performance Improvements of Design Work

The design process in construction has seldom been a target for industrialization, as it is assumed to be creative, ad-hoc, and iterative. However, digitalization has opened the door for the integration of design automation into construction through the use of product configurators. Configurators enable the specification of project-specific features from a pre-developed product platform. The case study demonstrates how configurator implementation affects the design process of a noise barrier and project performance. When the configurator is used, the specification process becomes simplified, systematized, and includes fewer iterations. Supporting software ensures information flow, reducing lead-time and production costs. Furthermore, configurator use increased the flexibility to respond to a client’s topographical adherence requirements, as well as the blueprint quality and buildability. This case study shows that the design of civil engineering products can be industrialized through the configuration of product platforms.