Implementing a Framework for Qualitative Assessment of New Technical Solutions: A Case Study on CLT

Abstract

New technical solutions are introduced at a fast pace in the Swedish construction industry, mainly driven by issues concerning costs and productivity. These new technical solutions can comprise new materials, new goods, new designs but also new processes. The record of accomplishment when introducing new technical solutions in the industry is not unproblematic and serial failures of different new technical solution have occurred. In an earlier interview study exploring introduction of new technical solutions in the Swedish construction industry, a common lack of thorough methods for evaluation of new solutions was identified. To address this issue, a case study was performed, exploring a method of evaluation with respect to building physics while implementing a cross laminated timber frame in a multifamily building. The case study uses a framework of assessment with focus on building physics. This paper presents the findings from the case study focusing on how evaluation of a new technical solution with respect to building physics is performed, together with an evaluation of the method, using the experiences of the participants in the case study.

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