Embracing DfMA at Scale

FP McCann’s Kieran Fields explains that in an era where productivity, sustainability, and programme certainty are non-negotiable, FP McCann is leading the way in integrating Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) across its UK-wide precast concrete manufacturing facilities. From early design collaboration to site installation, DfMA is embedded in our philosophy — streamlining processes, driving innovation, and delivering real, measurable value to our clients.

What is DfMA – and Why It Matters

DfMA is a modern construction approach that prioritises the design of building components for ease of off-site manufacture and efficient on-site assembly. It represents a shift from fragmented traditional building methods toward a systemised, modular philosophy that aligns perfectly with FP McCann’s precast concrete offering.

By designing for manufacturing and assembly from the outset, FP McCann reduces waste, limits costly rework, accelerates site programmes, and ensures quality-controlled consistency that cannot be matched by in-situ construction.

DfMA in Action: Inside FP McCann’s UK Manufacturing Facilities

At the core of FP McCann’s DfMA strategy are our state-of-the-art manufacturing plants, strategically located across the UK. These facilities are equipped with advanced formwork, automated reinforcement systems, and digital production monitoring, enabling us to deliver high-precision components tailored for rapid assembly.

Our DfMA capabilities extend across a wide product range:

• Precast wall panels with integrated insulation and service zones
• Stair cores and lift shafts manufactured to millimetre accuracy
• Infrastructure elements such as box culverts, chambers, and headwalls with plug-and-play connectivity
• Customised modular units such as dock leveller pits, retaining walls, and Easi-Base manhole systems

This breadth of capability enables early contractor involvement (ECI), design standardisation, and repeatable quality — key tenets of successful DfMA implementation.

Systemised Design and Build: Aligning Stakeholders for Success

FP McCann works closely with clients, consultants, and contractors to align DfMA principles with the broader design and build programme. Using 3D modelling, BIM integration, and coordinated sequencing, we de-risk the construction process long before materials arrive on-site.

By adopting a systemised approach, we help project teams:

• Achieve cost and programme certainty
• Reduce health and safety risks by limiting working at height and on-site manual labour
• Accelerate approvals and installation with repeatable, tested component designs
• Optimise logistics with just-in-time delivery and simplified craneage plans

Product Innovation: The Engine Behind DfMA Success

Innovation underpins everything we do. Our R&D and technical teams continually refine products to enhance performance, ease assembly, and reduce embodied carbon. Examples include:

• Threaded lifting anchors and self-aligning joints for faster placement
• Integrated insulation in precast sandwich panels for enhanced energy performance
• Standardised drainage products that are compliant with BBA and Water Industry Standards for faster approvals
• Tekla model data integration for seamless design coordination and clash detection

The Result: Greater Efficiency, Lower Risk, Better Outcomes

By embracing DfMA throughout our UK operations, FP McCann delivers benefits that resonate across the project lifecycle:

Final Thought: FP McCann – A Trusted DfMA Partner

As construction evolves, DfMA is no longer optional — it’s essential. FP McCann is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, offering clients a more innovative, predictable way to build. Whether it’s infrastructure, residential, commercial, or public sector projects, our expertise in DfMA helps deliver outcomes that meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s standards.

Discover how FP McCann’s DfMA expertise can transform your next project.
📞 Contact us today or explore our precast product range to learn more.