Lessons Learned on Selecting the Best Mass Housing Method Based on Performance Evaluation Criteria in Iran

ABSTRACT Choosing the most appropriate construction method is an important decision with a significant effect on the performance of mass housing (MH) projects throughout their life cycle. The experience obtained from MH projects by which a massive number of residential units have been built can provide valuable lessons learned for the construction industry. The purpose of this study is to measure the appropriateness of MH methods based on the performance evaluation (PE) criteria with emphasis on the acquired experience in Iran. A comprehensive review of the literature identified five popular MH methods and 15 most crucial PE criteria affecting the MH method selection. A survey study using questionnaires, distributed among 250 Iranian experts involved in MH projects throughout the world, was conducted to examine the responsiveness of the MH methods to these criteria. The obtained results show that the tunnel formworks and the light steel framing system are the most appropriate methods to meet the identified criteria. Also, the criteria in the cost category play the most critical role in MH method selection. The transferred experience through the findings of this study can assist decision-makers who are planning for MH construction projects and choosing the right method according to their priorities.