Review of Construction Lean Research Studies in Support of Lean Transformation to the Construction Operating Platform

Abstract

2The purpose of this study is to foster awareness among lean researchers on the current lean research platform in construction as viewed from the Toyota Production System (TPS) framework. The study draws from the International Group of Lean Construction (IGLC) research papers with the TPS philosophy and framework as embodied in "The Toyota Way" (TTW). Content analysis was chosen as the preferred methodology in conducting the analysis. The study findings revealed that IGLC research studies did not align exclusively around the TPS framework. Of 592 research studies analyzed, 241 (40%) were classified within the TPS framework, consisting of four categories, and 351 (60%) were classified outside the TPS framework, consisting of 15 lean-related proxy research categories. This study has particular implications in knowledge, practice, and teaching as it relates to lean research in construction. This study provides the reader with a brief introduction to the origins of lean construction and a comprehensive analysis of existing IGLC research studies, including a comparison to the TPS framework and expanded thematic categorization. The study fosters awareness among consumers of research in lean construction about the depth and breadth of the lean research platform in construction.

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