Analysis of Quality in the Modular Housing Industry.

摘要

Although the modular housing industry has been increasing its share of the U.S. housing industry, modular housing has not been widely accepted by the American consumer as an attractive housing alternative. One of the possible reasons for this lack of widespread acceptance is that the typical American consumer perceives modular housing as a low quality, and therefore, undesirable product. The modular housing industry faces the formidable task, therefore, of eradicating this stigma in order to gain wider acceptance of modular housing as a viable quality housing alternative. This report provides an assessment of the current state of quality within the modular housing industry. The quality management practices of three modular manufacturers are analyzed and compared with an ideal quality management plan. The degree to which the three manufacturers are meeting and exceeding their customers' needs is also analyzed. Several of the quality advantages and disadvantages offered by modular homes are also identified in this report. The methodology used can be adapted by individual systems built housing manufacturers to assess and improve their quality management efforts and the quality of their products.