| ||||||||
October 1, 2004
The Panels' Path
PATH Looks at How Builders Choose (or Don't Choose) Panel Systems
The Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH) recently awarded a research contract to develop case study models of builders who have chosen to incorporate the most pervasive factory-built housing technology -- panels -- into their production.
Knowing there are a myriad of reasons a builder would switch to such a different construction method, PATH is asking whether specific financial, technical or organizational reasons factored into their decision-making. Results from this study will provide a rich description of the combined financial, legal, regulatory, organizational and technical dilemmas faced by homebuilders.
In turn, it will suggest how PATH should restructure its technology deployment activities. This study is part of a series of PATH studies on the behavior of the homebuilding industry in response to technological advances. These studies describe who innovates and how to complement PATH's focus on what is being innovated. The first study in the series, titled "The Diffusion of Innovation in the Residential Building Industry" and published in 2003, outlined the defining characteristics among different kinds of homebuilders and their acceptance of innovation. Results from this study are expected within the year, but updates on the study will be disseminated by PATH throughout the year.
For further information contact:
Dr. Carlos Martín
HUD, PATH
(202) 708-0614 x5845
Dr. Mike Crosbie
Steve Winters Associates
Content updated on 3/8/2005