Structural Engineering
DfMA

Multi-Storey Buildings
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)

We specialise in DfMA-driven structural design for prefabricated and platform-based buildings.

Worked with

What we do

Core Services

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

Structural design and certification for multi-storey buildings using DfMA on both modular (3D) and panelised (2D) construction. We optimise column spacing, framing configurations and load-paths for efficient offsite manufacture across every building sector. This includes hybrid construction to utilise both traditional and modern methods of construction (MMC).

DfMA ADVISORY

We enhance building configurations through DfMA integration, value engineering and connection design — from early feasibility through to construction documentation. Less assumptions. Less variations. Better value. In addition, we also offer DfMA Guardian services to hold design teams to decisions made at concept design phase.

FEASIBILITY STUDIES

The feasibility stage is the optimum time to determine whether a building is suited to using MMC. Objective comparison of offsite vs traditional construction will help to identify differences in cost and time for consideration in the business study on each project. If MMC is appropriate, we will advise on the most suitable method of construction, to gain the most benefit before design commences.

FEASIBILITY STUDIES

The feasibility stage is the optimum time to determine whether a building is suited to using MMC. Objective comparison of offsite vs traditional construction will help to identify differences in cost and time for consideration in the business study on each project. If MMC is appropriate, we will advise on the most suitable method of construction, to gain the most benefit before design commences.

PLATFORMS APPROACH

We help building owners standardise structural frames across a pipeline of projects — creating predictability in cost, programme and quality through a repeatable, continuously improving construction system. This is particularly beneficial for building owners who could replicate their brand of rooms and building layouts, such as: Hotel brands, aged care providers, private schools, student accommodation, etc…

PLATFORMS APPROACH

We help building owners standardise structural frames across a pipeline of projects — creating predictability in cost, programme and quality through a repeatable, continuously improving construction system. This is particularly beneficial for building owners who could replicate their brand of rooms and building layouts, such as: Hotel brands, aged care providers, private schools, student accommodation, etc…

BIM SERVICES

We develop our analysis models and BIM models to document from LOD 100 through to LOD 450 - from preliminary analysis to fabrication shop drawings with a single-source of truth. We use advanced digital tools to create compliant, coordinated, future-ready documentation.

BIM SERVICES

We develop our analysis models and BIM models to document from LOD 100 through to LOD 450 - from preliminary analysis to fabrication shop drawings with a single-source of truth. We use advanced digital tools to create compliant, coordinated, future-ready documentation.

INTERNATIONAL LIAISON

With over 10 years of international experience in DfMA across the UK, Europe, USA and South-East Asia, we collaborate with overseas manufacturers to ensure designs fully comply with Australian building codes.

INTERNATIONAL LIAISON

With over 10 years of international experience in DfMA across the UK, Europe, USA and South-East Asia, we collaborate with overseas manufacturers to ensure designs fully comply with Australian building codes.

Who We Are

We understand complexity.
We believe in simplicity.

Systemised Design Group are a specialist building design consultancy delivering expert advice on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). We exist because our clients needed a team with deep, hands-on DfMA experience — not advisors who had read about it.

With over 25 years in the Australian building industry and 10 years developing modular and offsite projects across the UK, Europe, USA and South-East Asia, we bring international rigour to Australian projects — ensuring designs are compliant, efficient, and built to perform.

Our founder, Simon McCarthy, is a CPEng-registered structural engineer, a Board Director of PrefabAUS, and one of Australia's leading voices on industrialised construction.

What We Do

What We Do

Success In Prefab Starts Before Design.

"DfMA leads to less assumptions, less variations, less delays — better quality and better value."

01

Feasibility & Early Collaboration

Before schematic design begins, we assess whether your project is suited to DfMA. This is where the biggest gains are made.

01
Feasibility & Early Collaboration

Before schematic design begins, we assess whether your project is suited to DfMA. This is where the biggest gains are made.

01
Feasibility & Early Collaboration

Before schematic design begins, we assess whether your project is suited to DfMA. This is where the biggest gains are made.

02

System Selection

We are not confined to one system - we asses each building to determine the most appropriate construction technique. We collaborate with a large range of manufacturers, fabricators and builders to design to their manufacturing process.

02
System Selection

We are not confined to one system - we asses each building to determine the most appropriate construction technique. We collaborate with a large range of manufacturers, fabricators and builders to design to their manufacturing process.

02
System Selection

We are not confined to one system - we asses each building to determine the most appropriate construction technique. We collaborate with a large range of manufacturers, fabricators and builders to design to their manufacturing process.

03

Team & Network Assembly

We build the right project team from our network — architects, engineers, certifiers and manufacturers tailored to your sector.

03
Team & Network Assembly

We build the right project team from our network — architects, engineers, certifiers and manufacturers tailored to your sector.

03
Team & Network Assembly

We build the right project team from our network — architects, engineers, certifiers and manufacturers tailored to your sector.

04

Design, Documentation & Delivery

We lead structural design and BIM documentation through all stages — ensuring the design is optimised for factory manufacture and site assembly. A refined solution provides the best value to our clients.

04
Design, Documentation & Delivery

We lead structural design and BIM documentation through all stages — ensuring the design is optimised for factory manufacture and site assembly. A refined solution provides the best value to our clients.

04
Design, Documentation & Delivery

We lead structural design and BIM documentation through all stages — ensuring the design is optimised for factory manufacture and site assembly. A refined solution provides the best value to our clients.

05

Continual Improvement

We don't start from scratch each time. Lessons from every project are embedded into the next — delivering better outcomes with every build.

05
Continual Improvement

We don't start from scratch each time. Lessons from every project are embedded into the next — delivering better outcomes with every build.

05
Continual Improvement

We don't start from scratch each time. Lessons from every project are embedded into the next — delivering better outcomes with every build.

Ready to
Build Smarter?

Whether you're at concept stage or need specialist input on a project already in progress, we'd love to hear from you. Let's find the right solution for your build.

Ready to
Build Smarter?

Whether you're at concept stage or need specialist input on a project already in progress, we'd love to hear from you. Let's find the right solution for your build.

Ready to
Build Smarter?

Whether you're at concept stage or need specialist input on a project already in progress, we'd love to hear from you. Let's find the right solution for your build.

Our Work

Complexity resolved. Project by project.

Below is a selection of projects across residential, commercial, education, health, aged care and justice sectors — delivered in Australia and internationally.

FAQ

Questions and Answers

Clear explanations to help you understand how we work and what to expect.

What is DfMA?

DfMA stands for Design for Manufacture and Assembly. It is a design methodology that considers how a building will be fabricated in a factory and assembled on site — during the design phase, rather than after tender. This approach reduces assumptions, minimises variations and leads to more predictable programmes and costs.

What is DfMA?

DfMA stands for Design for Manufacture and Assembly. It is a design methodology that considers how a building will be fabricated in a factory and assembled on site — during the design phase, rather than after tender. This approach reduces assumptions, minimises variations and leads to more predictable programmes and costs.

What is the difference between volumetric modular and kit-of-parts construction?

What is the difference between volumetric modular and kit-of-parts construction?

How does DfMA save time compared to traditional construction?

How does DfMA save time compared to traditional construction?

Are modular buildings compliant with the National Construction Code?

Are modular buildings compliant with the National Construction Code?

When should I engage Systemised Design Group on my project?

When should I engage Systemised Design Group on my project?

Is there a cost for an initial consultation?

Is there a cost for an initial consultation?

Contact

Get in touch

Whether you're exploring DfMA for the first time or need a specialist structural engineer on an existing project, we're here to help. Tell us about your project and we'll get back to you within one business day.

Systemised Design Group - your consultant of choice for Structural / DfMA Engineering in the design of buildings

Designing spaces with clarity, purpose, and enduring beauty.

Creating architecture and interiors that balance functionality, emotion, and timeless aesthetics.

Our Location

Offices:

Victoria - Melbourne
Queensland - Mackay

© 2026 Systemised Design Group. All rights reserved.

Systemised Design Group - your consultant of choice for Structural / DfMA Engineering in the design of buildings

Designing spaces with clarity, purpose, and enduring beauty.

Creating architecture and interiors that balance functionality, emotion, and timeless aesthetics.

Our Location

Offices:

Victoria - Melbourne
Queensland - Mackay

© 2026 Systemised Design Group. All rights reserved.

Systemised Design Group - your consultant of choice for Structural / DfMA Engineering in the design of buildings

Designing spaces with clarity, purpose, and enduring beauty.

Creating architecture and interiors that balance functionality, emotion, and timeless aesthetics.

Our Location

Offices:

Victoria - Melbourne
Queensland - Mackay

© 2026 Systemised Design Group. All rights reserved.