Vision for Offsite Construction Standardization

Guiding the Interfaces that Unlock the Full Potential of Industrialized Construction Products

The U.S. offsite construction industry is gradually shifting from an engineer-to-order paradigm, into configure-to-order delivery systems. Because individual firms are leading the design of outstanding building products, the industry is growing increasingly dependent on interfaces that help those products connect rapidly, share utilities, and interoperate.

The Center for Offsite Construction (CfOC) in New York Tech’s School of Architecture & Design is leading the development of American National Standards for Modular Interfaces—a transformative step toward achieving full interoperability across modular construction systems. This standard will define module-to-module and building-to-module connections, ensuring consistency, reliability, and efficiency for developers, manufacturers, and regulatory agencies:

  • Establishing standardized connection configurations.
  • Supporting compliance, quality, and performance.
  • Increasing compatibility across modular manufacturers.
  • Facilitating regulatory acceptance of modular buildings.

While the CfOC leads several interface initiatives, a partnership agreement with the International Code Council (ICC) is currently in negotiation. This collaboration will help ensure the standard integrates with existing building codes and facilitates regulatory adoption at national and international levels.

Why Standards Matters

Offsite construction has emerged as a solution for affordable housing, rapid deployment of structures, and sustainable development. However, lack of standardized connections has been a persistent challenge, leading to inefficiencies and customization barriers. This new standard will provide a clear framework to:

  • Standardize connection points across modular components.
  • Reduce customization barriers, making modular construction more scalable.
  • Enable regulatory streamlining by aligning with recognized codes.
  • Enhance structural and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) coordination
  • Support multi-manufacturer compatibility for greater supply chain flexibility
  • Systematize code & safety compliance by aligning modular components with national and international building codes.

How the Standard Will Be Developed

The CfOC follows rigorous ANSI-approved consensus procedures to ensure broad industry participation. The standard will be developed in phases:

  1. Project Announcement & Stakeholder Engagement
    • Formal project notice via ANSI’s Project Initiation Notification System (PINS)
    • Public call for participation from industry experts
    • Establishment of the Consensus Committee
  2. Consensus-Based Drafting Process
    • Technical research and framework development
    • Public comment periods for industry feedback
    • Iterative revisions based on expert input
  3. Finalization & Adoption
    • Submission for ANSI approval
    • Integration into industry guidelines and potential regulatory adoption
See CfOC’s Procedural Guidelines

Why Industry Participation Matters

We are designing this standard for the industry, by the industry. Modular manufacturers, developers, and design professionals are encouraged to contribute to help shape the final standard.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Join the Consensus Committee.
  • Participate in technical discussions.
  • Review and comment on draft versions.
  • Collaborate on pilot projects.

For more information, reach out to Managing Director Matt Ford at mford05@nyit.edu.

ANSI Accredited Standards Developer

The Center’s mission focuses on introducing urgently needed open-source, collaboratively drafted standards. To support that focus, the Center is an Accredited Standards Developer of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The Center is committed to adhering to ANSI’s Essential Requirements for openness, balance, coordination, consensus, and due process. Participation of the various stakeholders in an accessible, equitable, and responsive environment is crucial in developing consensus for an American National Standard.

The Center invites interested parties to collaborate in our standards development processes, please contact Managing Director Matt Ford at mford05@nyit.edu for more information.

Follow Our Progress

This page will be regularly updated with:

  • Development milestones
  • Upcoming public engagement opportunities
  • Technical reports and draft updates
  • Case studies on implementation
Stay Connected Via CfOC LinkedIn