Before diving into preconstruction, let’s explore BIM (Building Information Modeling), VDC (Virtual Design & Construction), and prefabrication to understand their importance. The truth is, much of what we've been doing with these processes has always been preconstruction. However, reframing preconstruction as the primary objective unlocks innovative problem-solving approaches that help meet tighter schedules and reduce rework. After all, we’re all beholden to the dreaded construction schedule. The good news? Preconstruction provides a roadmap to meet—and even beat—those deadlines.

What Does BIM Actually Mean?

I often hear people say, “We’re going to BIM this job.” Typically, they mean they plan to model the project using software like Revit. On medium to large projects, this often includes trade coordination. But BIM is much more than just modeling or coordinating—it’s a comprehensive process.

The goal of BIM is to use technology like Revit, Navisworks, and robotic total stations to communicate how we intend to execute a construction project before work begins. In essence, BIM helps pre-plan the project and embed as much information as possible based on the project’s complexity and requirements.

We Don’t Call It BIM Anymore—We Call It VDC

Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) takes BIM further by managing the entire project using technology. It breaks the job into manageable pieces—typically spools and packages. Spools usually consist of about a day’s worth of work, while packages cover one to two weeks, including all necessary drawings and information for prefabrication or on-site construction.

This approach allows us to plan and schedule well beyond the two-week look-ahead meeting, even when unexpected delays occur, such as weather interruptions or rescheduled inspections. VDC also promotes productized construction—standardizing components across projects wherever possible.

VDC becomes the information nerve center for project managers, field teams, prefabrication, and other trades. Modeling and coordinating in Revit are just a fraction of what VDC can deliver.

Prefabrication Isn’t a Silo

When was the last time you visited your company’s prefab shop? If it’s been a while, you may be underutilizing its potential. Prefab is often seen as a solution to compressed schedules, but too frequently, it becomes just a storage space for equipment and materials or a place for quick assembly tasks.

While prefab can handle those functions, it’s capable of much more. Think of it as a job site away from the job site. To fully leverage prefab, project managers, field teams, purchasing, VDC, and even IT need to collaborate. With the right investment of time and resources, prefab can deliver transformative benefits—I’ve seen it firsthand.

Preconstruction Brings It All Together

Preconstruction serves as the umbrella that connects VDC and prefabrication. Its purpose is to synchronize these functions so the field can reap the benefits. When VDC and prefab aren’t aligned, field teams often express frustration, saying things like, “They’re slowing me down” or “We had to rework what they sent us.” Sound familiar?

To clarify how preconstruction works, let’s break down the key roles and responsibilities within a typical preconstruction team.

Key Leadership Roles

VP or Director of Preconstruction: This leader holds the trust and authority to make decisions that benefit the entire organization. They ensure prefab and VDC collaborate effectively to deliver better outcomes on the job site.

Director or Senior Prefabrication Manager: They create systems to efficiently process work orders and deliver products that don’t require rework on-site. They also collaborate with the field and VDC to increase prefab opportunities and manage shop operations.

Execution Roles

Prefabrication Manager: Assigns work to the shop floor and manages incoming prefab requests. Depending on company size, they may also oversee material deliveries or delegate that responsibility to a Logistics Manager.

VDC Manager: Responsible for staffing and meeting project deadlines within the VDC scope. Larger companies may have a Director of VDC focused on optimizing the department’s services to support prefabrication and field operations.

Specialist Roles

VDC Project Lead: Oversees individual VDC projects and assigns tasks to VDC Engineers.

VDC Engineers: Skilled in reading construction documents and creating models.

VDC Technology Specialist: Ensures software tools are used efficiently. This role is sometimes filled by the VDC Manager, though doing both often compromises success in one area.

Coordination Roles

Preconstruction Manager: A field-seasoned expert who evaluates design and construction documents for constructability and pre-constructability.

Prefabrication Coordinator: Acts as the communication bridge between the field, prefab shop, and VDC. They ensure that drawings from VDC are ready for prefab and that prefab outputs are field-ready.

A Closing Word

Your company likely already exhibits many traits of preconstruction. Depending on your size and project focus, your structure and priorities may differ. Still, I hope this article has shed light on where prefab and VDC are headed—or where they can go with the right attention and investment.