An Indicator-Based Framework for Measuring the Level of On-Site Industrialized Construction in Concrete Residential Buildings

Abstract Prefabricated construction (PC) and on-site industrialized construction (OIC) have demonstrated great potential in enhancing sustainability in industrialized construction (IC) of concrete residential buildings. However, existing IC evaluation frameworks worldwide have paid limited attention to OIC, resulting in a development leaning toward PC while marginalizing on-site industrialized approaches. To fill the gap, this study develops and provides a preliminary validation of a measurement framework for evaluating OIC performance in concrete residential buildings. First, following a systematic literature review and expert interviews, an OIC measurement framework comprising 22 indicators was established from technological and managerial dimensions. Subsequently, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was utilized for latent structure identification, followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for statistical reliability. According to the relative importance index analysis, technique standardization, information integration, and application rate of advanced construction technologies were identified as the three most critical indicators. Meanwhile, differences in rankings suggest that the industry still lacks a unified understanding of OIC. Then, specific measurement items for each indicator were formulated, containing both quantitative and qualitative methods. Finally, the applicability of the measurement framework was demonstrated through a combination of case validation and expert interviews. This study establishes a scalable framework that serves as a critical supplement to existing IC evaluation systems. It provides an empirical basis for government departments to optimize IC standards while offering formative guidance for construction companies to enhance OIC performance.