Case study: Lean supply chain management in construction projects

Eric Zimmer, Ossama Salem, Ashraf Genaidy, Richard Shell

Research output: Chapter in Book/Entry/PoemConference contribution

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Researchers and construction professionals have adopted lean manufacturing concepts and strategies in the development of lean construction principles. Much of these efforts have centered on the field construction activities themselves. However, the ideology of lean focuses on the entire value stream of an operation from raw material to final product delivery. Waste and inefficiency is still evident throughout construction supply chains. The goal of this paper is to investigate improvement opportunities in the construction industry, utilizing the practice of lean supply chain management. A case study was conducted to achieve this goal and investigate applicability in the field. An assessment was done with a local contractor already familiar with lean. From this study came a number of findings and observations: differences between lean and non-lean fabricators and effects on construction, effective staging of materials. From these findings, improvement recommendations are prepared for future projects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of IGLC16
Subtitle of host publication16th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction
Pages381-388
Number of pages8
StatePublished - 2008
Event16th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, IGLC16 - Manchester, United Kingdom
Duration: Jul 16 2008Jul 18 2008

Publication series

NameProceedings of IGLC16: 16th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction

Other

Other16th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction, IGLC16
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityManchester
Period7/16/087/18/08

Keywords

  • Collaboration
  • Just-in-time
  • Lean construction
  • Supply chain management

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • Architecture

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