Integrating Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) with BIM for infrastructure

Modular construction is gaining global attention to address infrastructure productivity and sustainability issues. However, its adoption faces challenges due to complex design coordination and process management. Researchers recognised that integrating Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) with Building Information Modelling (BIM) can overcome these obstacles. Despite the potential, the literature on DfMA-BIM integration is fragmented and limitedly researched. Adopting the PRISMA methodology, this paper conducted a systematic literature review from 2012 to 2023 to reveal the global status of DfMA and BIM research, drivers and barriers to DfMA-BIM integration, their impact on carbon reduction and future research direction. The findings underscore that government policy is a primary driver for DfMA-BIM research globally, with three major barriers to DfMABIM integration: incomplete regulations, skill/knowledge shortage, and cultural resistance. The fragmented nature of the current research was evidenced by the Odds Ratio of 0.397, highlighting the need for more interconnected research for DfMA-BIM integration.