Application of Lean Concepts in Building Construction

Sumayya. P. M.

The construction industry has demonstrated a decline in productivity when compared to other industries over the past twenty years. In order to overcome this defect in the construction industry, the lean concept has been introduced. Lean concepts have caused a revolution in manufacturing design, supply, and assembly. Applied to construction, lean concepts can change the way of work is done throughout the facility delivery process. The construction project where lean principle is applied to is defined by the term lean construction.Lean construction is a method of production aimed at reducing time, cost, materials and effort. It is about designing and building a solution that meets client needs and getting it right the first time. Improvement of processes and elimination of waste is fundamental to this. To achieve this, it is essential that we work closely with the client in order to deliver a product that meets their needs and requirements. Lean needs to focus on delivering value by addressing the lowest total cost as opposed to being driven by price. To do this, it is necessary to focus on processes that can be improved and remove all those elements that do not add value. In lean construction, owner, designers, contractors, and suppliers work together to produce a value-adding, efficient and maintainable facility.