ORCID
- Alejandro Veliz Reyes: 0000-0002-5044-1782
- Duhan Olmez: 0000-0002-9334-6283
Document Type
Article
Abstract
The construction sector faces growing pressure to meet net-zero targets while addressing skills shortages, fragmented supply chains, and the limited participation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), despite SMEs delivering most UK construction output. Existing centralised models of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) often exclude SMEs, highlighting the need for alternative approaches that support inclusive, low-carbon industrial transformation. This paper presents a Design for Distributed Manufacturing and Assembly (DfDMA) framework that develops the shared digital and organisational infrastructure required for SME participation in timber-based MMC. Using a mixed-method approach combining co-design, research-in-residence, prototyping, and a full-scale demonstrator, the study developed and validated a DfDMA Platform, Production Control Plan, and Material Passport system through the Dell Cabin, the UK's first fully passported prefabricated timber building. Findings indicate that DfDMA has the potential to improve production consistency, material traceability, and embodied carbon outcomes, demonstrating its potential to enable resilient, SME-centred construction ecosystems.
DOI Link
Publication Date
2026-09-25
Publication Title
Production and Manufacturing Research
Volume
14
Issue
1
Acceptance Date
2026-09-16
Deposit Date
2026-09-29
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Veliz Reyes, A., Olmez, D., Parvin, A., Prest, C., Granello, G., Richardson, A., Tempest, A., Hoefkens, K., Knowles, L., & Fowler, S. (2026) 'Digital infrastructure for the inclusion of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in design for distributed manufacturing and assembly construction ecosystems', Production and Manufacturing Research, 14(1). Available at: 10.1080/21693277.2026.2736992
