Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the offsite construction industry and hsbcad solutions.

What is offsite?

Offsite construction is a building method where components are prefabricated and manufactured in a controlled factory environment, then transported to the site for assembly. Also known as prefabrication, modular construction, or Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), it reduces material waste and improves quality control compared to traditional onsite building. By combining BIM with Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) principles, projects can move seamlessly from design to production.

Already considering a transition? Find out more from our whitepaper.

Download the full whitepaper

What software is used for offsite construction?

Offsite construction software covers design, manufacturing, and production, and the best platforms bring it together into a single connected workflow. It bridges the gap between the design office and the factory floor, taking an architectural model and turning it into actionable manufacturing data: cut lists, machine files, work orders, assembly instructions. hsbcad is built to do exactly that.

Curious to learn more?

Read the full article

What is Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) and why is it important for offsite construction?

DfMA is a methodology where buildings are designed for efficient fabrication and assembly from the outset, connecting design, engineering, and production into a single coordinated workflow. In offsite construction, prefabrication, and modular building, DfMA enables a true design-to-production process by combining BIM with industrialized construction and automated manufacturing. The result is less rework, faster build times, improved accuracy, and more predictable costs across timber frame and mass timber projects.

Curious to find out more?

Read the full article

How is hsbcad different from other software providers?

hsbView for manufacturing

hsbcad stands out by delivering a true end-to-end, design-to-production workflow tailored specifically for offsite timber construction. While many software solutions focus on either design or manufacturing, hsbcad connects both enabling a single BIM-driven model to flow directly from design through to CNC production and factory assembly.

This approach supports one connected workflow from design to manufacturing, helping companies reduce rework, improve accuracy, and scale production without increasing design workload.

Does the CAD model drive the CNC machines?

Yes. When implemented correctly, the BIM/CAD model can directly drive CNC machines such as Weinmann, Hundegger, and Randek, forming the foundation of a true design-to-production workflow. Design data is translated into machine-ready instructions, enabling file-to-factory integration where geometry, connections, and materials are processed without manual rework. This delivers higher precision, fewer errors, reduced lead times, and consistent quality across projects.

Read the full article
Keith Cotter
Business Development Manager
Hi, I’m Keith Cotter. I’m happy to help with any question you have.
Get in touch