Innovating Government Housing: An MMC Journey
Andy Davey, Ausco's Technical Development Manager and Project Director for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Housing, boasts a rich background in engineering and manufacturing. Trained as a chemical engineer, Andy joined Ausco initially in an operational role, but his innovative spirit soon saw him transition to design, where he sought to fix processes and embrace new approaches. His journey reflects a commitment to applying systematic design techniques across various sectors, underlining his belief that it's not just the buildings that matter but the methodology behind them.
Andy’s passion for MMC stems from the efficiency and repeatability these methods offer. By leveraging design sprints—a practice borrowed from software development—Andy and his team use this methodology to devise smart, innovative solutions that break away from traditional construction methods. This collaborative approach allows Ausco to design more quickly, efficiently, and with predictable outcomes, facilitating rapid adjustments in the future. By integrating Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) principles, we ensure each project meets and exceeds client expectations. In 2022, the Queensland Government adopted the design sprint methodology and invited Ausco to join other industry SMEs to change the face of MMC.
As the Project Director for MMC Housing, Andy oversees all aspects of design and program management. His role is pivotal in ensuring smooth collaboration between design, manufacturing, and delivery teams through effective communication and a collaborative approach. Our strong client relationships, built on trust and transparency, allow us to have honest and direct conversations when necessary. The key players at QBuild, who have worked with us since the initial design sprints, exemplify the collaborative and enduring partnerships we strive to maintain.
Staying up to date with industry trends is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring innovative solutions. At Ausco, we prioritise continuous learning and engagement with the latest advancements.
“Our involvement with PrefabAUS provides invaluable insights into cutting-edge practices and developments within the modular construction sector. Peer networking, technical conferences and LinkedIn articles help us stay informed about new products, emerging trends, and shared knowledge both nationally and internationally, enabling us to integrate the best ideas and technologies into our projects.” – Andy Davey
Ausco's MMC journey has achieved significant milestones, starting with the design sprints for Package 1 and securing Tranche 4, along with the Quick 100 (Q100), which includes the delivery of 35 houses to regional Queensland by Christmas 2024. Our engineers, estimators, and designers work closely together, playing to each other's strengths and managing necessary risks, striking a balance between efficiency and precision to make the right decisions and achieve optimal outcomes. Backed by an experienced Business Development Manager overseeing client relations, along with a dedicated construction team, there is a strong support network ensuring the success of these high-profile projects.
Not everyone has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through their daily work. The future of MMC at Ausco is clear: to deliver projects on time, within budget, and with the highest safety standards, all while continuing to innovate and enhance our modular solutions, and enjoying the journey as a team.
