Katerra last week launched a new suite of technology products for the construction industry, including a proprietary software that integrates data gathered throughout an entire building’s supply chain and construction.
The Apollo software platform is designed to support "the entire lifecycle of the building process,” the Menlo Park, California-based group said in a Feb. 19 press release. “Apollo manages all critical resources — cost, schedule, teams, and materials — all through one persistent data stream” aimed at increasing productivity and collaboration.
The technology firm, focused on prefabrication and modular construction, is accepting industry applicants to test the product in a pioneer program. Apollo Construct, a project management tool for estimation and scheduling, will be the first application within the Apollo suite that Katerra launches, followed by Apollo Insight and Apollo Connect, which incorporates visual 3D design feasibility studies and BIM-based budgeting tools, respectively.
Katerra said it aims to build off the system’s open API integration to merge with and capitalize on tools currently used in construction workflows today. The firm hopes to distinguish its product from others narrowly geared toward “the challenges of specific trades or distinct phases of the building process," however, and will incorporate everything from cost estimation to workforce management.
“Better, faster, cheaper building requires us to support earlier decision making, create faster feedback loops, and drive increased integration from beginning to end, for all teams involved,” said Michael Marks, chairman and co-founder. “Given our model of vertically integrated building, Katerra is uniquely positioned to bring all these elements together in a robust software solution.”
The company also announced Katerra Building Platforms system, which it said are “buildings designed as manufactured, repeatable products, while still maintaining design configuration options for various clients, regions, and markets.” With this system of modular construction, “The vast majority of architecture and engineering is completed in advance, meaning every part and piece is known up front and estimation, feasibility, and other early project phases can be completed much more quickly.”
In addition to process and software tools, Katerra launched its own “system-based” cross-laminated timber product, along with windows, interior fixtures, bathroom kits, HVAC units and a single-enclosure electrical power metering and distribution appliance.
