Rethinking lean synergistically in practice for construction industry improvements

Abstract

PurposeLean construction is widely known as a theory or methodology of organizational management, while seldom been studied as a solution for industry improvements through practice. This paper explores the practical role of lean for construction industry improvements beyond its theoretical inspirations by empirically examining the industry understanding and practice with the case of Hong Kong.Design/methodology/approachThe research was designed as a mixed-method study by combining a critical literature review, semi-structured interviews with relevant professionals, and a follow-up research workshop that includes eight focus group discussions over two break-out sessions with Hong Kong construction stakeholders.FindingsThe research results indicate a low awareness of the term “lean construction” in use, but its principles were implicitly embedded in relevant practices and techniques, particularly building information modeling (BIM), low or zero carbon building (L/ZCB), and prefabrication and modular construction. Practitioners perceived wide-ranging benefits of lean for construction industry improvements but were reluctant to pioneer its adoption and concerned the multi-level challenges.Originality/valueThe paper provides a new practical perspective to rethink lean for construction industry improvements through its synergies with emerging practices, i.e. BIM and ICT, L/ZCB and sustainability, and prefabrication and modular construction.

Assessment of risk factors to Green, Lean, Six Sigma adoption in construction sector: Integrated ISM-MICMAC approach

“…LC adheres to lean principles within construction projects, aiming to identify and eliminate superfluous processes or inefficiencies, stabilize workflow, and enhance a firm's responsiveness [ 39 ]. As highlighted by Pan and Pan [ 40 ], organizations in the construction sector are experiencing numerous advantages through the adoption of LC, including increased quality and worker safety, as well as reduced project duration and costs. Shaqour [ 41 ] claimed that LC projects enhance customer satisfaction, optimize design, and improve project lead time.…”

“…Widely employed methods within LC are Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA), Kanban system, 5S process, Ishikawa diagrams, Poka-Yoke, standardization, and Last Planner System [ 40 , 41 ].…”

A Review of Current Lean Approach Practice in the Industrialised Building System (IBS) of the Malaysian Construction Industry

“…Although lean approach was considered as an advanced technique in construction. However, without knowing on how lean approach is implemented, it will create multi-level of challenges as stated by Pan and Pan (2022). The challenges regarding of lean approach in construction were identified and summarised in 2022) revealed the knowledge regarding lean amongst construction stakeholders still at infancy stage and challenging to practice in their workplace.…”

Implementing enterprise resource planning for lean waste minimisation: challenges and proposed strategies

“…(2013a, b) highlight that the integrated functions of ERP systems lead to organisational resource savings in different ways. Furthermore, in the construction industry, the ERP system is described as an information technology (IT) based computer platform that allows the integration of varied business processes of an organisation using a single database to enhance efficiency and, subsequently, revenues (Pan and Pan, 2022). Overall, it is clear that both the Lean and ERP approaches are being applied to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction projects while minimising waste generated in the construction industry.…”