Development of a Lean Construction Framework for the Saudi Arabian Construction Industry

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has witnessed a huge increase in construction during the last two decades. However, many projects experienced time delays, cost overruns and the generation of massive amounts of waste. To address these challenges, lean construction has been introduced into the Saudi construction industry; however, it is still in its infancy. This study therefore investigates the current state of lean construction implementation in the construction industry in the KSA. The objectives are to identify: the types of construction waste, level of use of tools that support the implementation of lean construction, stages of application of lean methods, and the benefits of lean construction. To achieve these objectives, a structured questionnaire survey of 282 construction professionals was carried out. After the analysis of the collected data using mean score and Anova test, the following conclusions were made. In the construction industry in the KSA, waiting is the most common type of waste, while Computer Aided Design (CAD) is the conventional tool supporting the implementation of lean construction. Furthermore, the data suggests that lean construction is most commonly used in the construction stage of projects while customer satisfaction is the main benefit derived from lean construction practices. This study concludes that the level of implementation of lean construction in the KSA construction industry is increasing. The results will help benchmark the current state of lean construction implementation, which will enable the construction industry to identify strategies to implement lean construction in Saudi Arabia in accordance with their needs and project goals, to achieve better productivity.

Question: How to standardize Lean Construction (LC) implementation so that construction companies can implement lean practices to achieve rapid initial successes? Purpose: LC implementation process is not yet standardized; therefore, there is variation of construction project performance improvement within the range of less than 10% to even greater than 30%. Although some researchers have endeavored to develop LC implementation frameworks, these frameworks are difficult for the construction companies to follow because they either only explain the theoretical aspects of LC or were developed based on the inputs only from few lean experts. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop an easy-to-follow LC implementation framework based on robust analysis of the contextual relationships among factors from successful lean projects. Research Method: The method of this study included several steps: (1) Confirming LC successful factors from literature review, (2) Establishing relationships between factors using a questionnaire-based survey and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) technique, (3) Developing ISM based matrices and model, and (4) Developing LC implementation framework. Findings: This study has developed a robust LC implementation framework based on 12 critical success factors (CSFs). Sixty-six pairwise comparisons between CSFs revealed the influential impact of one factor onto the others. Using the ISM technique, the hierarchy of these CSFs was established within the framework. The developed implementation framework contains four driving factors that have the most driving power, three dependent factors as well as five linkage factors for facilitating LC implementation. The top four most important and prerequisite factors for efficient implementation of LC are: Acquiring requisite knowledge and training regarding LC tools and techniques; Ensuring adequate commitment from all the stakeholders including the workforce; Improving collaboration, communication, and visualization; and Long term partnership and trust worthy relations. Implications: The framework standardizes lean implementation processes and improves the lean culture within an organization. This is especially useful for the new LC companies moving towards lean, and also facilitates the successful implementation of LC for the entire construction industry. Keywords: Lean Construction, Success factors, statistically analyzed relationships, LC Implementation Framework, Interpretative Structural Modeling Paper Type: Full Paper

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for implementing lean construction and consequently to improve performance levels in the construction industry in the context of Saudi Arabia. There is currently no framework for implementing lean construction specifically tailored to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) construction industry. Existing lean construction frameworks are focussed on other countries and are less applicable in the KSA due to differences in socio-cultural and operational contexts.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs the interpretive structural modelling (ISM) technique for data collection and analysis. First, following a survey of 282 construction professionals, 12 critical success factors (CSFs) for implementing lean construction in the KSA construction industry were identified by Sarhanet al.(2016). Second, 16 of these professionals who have 15 years or more experience were exclusively selected to examine the contextual relationship among the 12 CSFs. A row and column questionnaire was used for a pairwise comparison of the CSFs. A matrix of cross-impact multiplications (MICMAC) was applied to analyse the questionnaire data to develop an ISM model that can serve as a framework for implementing lean construction. Third, the framework was subjected to further validation by interviewing five experts to check for conceptual inconsistencies and to confirm the applicability of the framework in the context of the KSA construction industry.FindingsThe findings reveal that the CSFs are divided into four clusters: autonomous, linkage, dependent and driving clusters. Additionally, the findings reveal seven hierarchies of inter-relationships among the CSFs. The order of practical application of the CSFs descends from the seventh hierarchy to the first hierarchy.Originality/valueThe new framework is a significant advancement over existing lean construction frameworks as it employs an ISM technique to specify the hierarchical relationships among the different factors that contribute to the successful implementation of lean construction. The primary value of this study is the development of a new framework that reflects the socio-cultural and operational contexts in the KSA construction industry and can guide the successful implementation of lean construction. Therefore, construction industry operators such as contractors, consultants, government departments and professionals can rely on the framework to implement lean construction more effectively and successfully.

The construction industry plays a vital role in the economy but is also a significant contributor to waste generation and resource depletion. Lean construction has emerged as a strategy to address these challenges by focusing on minimising waste, enhancing efficiency, and maximising value throughout the project lifecycle. Moreover, the lean concepts positively impact sustainability in construction projects. Therefore, this study aims to review the evolution, principles, and implementation of lean construction in the construction industry. Through review, the study concludes that the lean construction principles encompass Customer Value, Value Stream, Flow, Pull, and Perfection. Further, the most commonly cited lean tools utilised in the construction industry include Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Last planner system (LPS), visual management, Total Quality Management (TQM), Poka-Yoke, 5S, Takt Time Planning (TTP), first-run studies, JIT, material or component flow, work structuring, kanban, supply chain integration, cell production units, continuous improvement cells, prefabrication and modularisation, Jidoka (in-station quality), line of balance method (LOB), 5 Why's, Gemba walk, PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, A3 report, Target value design (TVD) and other. Further research is needed to refine lean construction methodologies implementation and overcome implementation barriers, ensuring its widespread adoption and long-term success in the construction industry.

The traditional procurement system, the structure of the industry and the nature of the construction product all influence current practices and thinking within the construction industry. Whilst there have been recent changes in the way the industry operates, the majority of construction projects in Klang Valley are still delivered using traditional practices. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the influence factors of the implementation lean construction at selected construction sites in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Evaluation index system in terms of questionnaire and interview were utilized to evaluate the barriers of the implementation of lean construction. Based on that, questionnaire was selected with workers to evaluate the implementation of lean construction techniques in Klang Valley. After that, interview was selected to study the influence factors on the implementation of lean construction. Structural Equation Modelling was utilized in the survey with the project team (contractors, clients and consultants) to measure the effectiveness of the barriers and strategies of the implementation of lean construction at the construction sites. Based on that, the strategies of the implementation of lean construction can be described as follows. Provide support from the top management, develop strategic alliance between various firms, A requirement of staff competent to lean construction, develop the integration between design and construction, educate people about lean construction, encourage clients to adopt lean construction, provide staff training about lean construction as well as disputes and claims. In addition, their standardized estimates (SE) are (ß = 0. 013, 0.025, 0.023, 0.027, 0.015, 0.034, 0.021, 0.021, 0.023 respectively.

Purpose The purpose of the paper is to investigate the critical success factors (CSFs) associated with the effectiveness of transfer and sharing of tacit knowledge in lean and agile construction processes. Design/methodology/approach The study identifies ten CSFs that initiate the transferring and sharing of tacit knowledge. The CSFs are validated through quantitative study. This study recruited project managers, executives, consultants and other managers that are directly involved in the management of a construction project. It recruits the respondents those have background and experience from disciplines such as lean construction, agile construction, construction supply chain (CSC) and knowledge management in lean, agile and CSC. The data collected through self-administrative questionnaire are categorised as ordinal data to analyse in SPSS with frequency and Kruskal–Wallis H test, Spearman’s correlation analysis and a rank-order analysis is done to establish the level of importance of those factors. Findings Initially, “Trust between construction organisations” is identified as the foremost CSF. Moreover, other CSFs such as motivation, leadership capabilities, business strategies and organisational capabilities follow trust. Originality/value This is the first study that investigates and establishes the CSFs that are essential to initiate transferring and sharing tacit knowledge in a lean and in an agile construction processes.

Purpose Construction management is enriched in many ways by direct and indirect support of lean construction concept. The objectives of this study are to assess the current level of awareness about lean construction practice, to identify the potential benefits and challenges to implement lean construction in the Bangladeshi construction industry and to prioritize them. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review has been done to design a questionnaire for the survey. The final questionnaire has been designed with 27 lean tools, 41 challenges, and seven benefits of implementing lean principles in the construction industry. A total of 164 valid responses have been collected from Bangladeshi construction practitioners involved in different types of construction organizations. The result has been analyzed by Relative Important Index (RII). Findings The findings revealed 41 challenges to implement lean construction with seven benefits in the Bangladeshi construction industry. The result shows that an appreciable number of respondent familiar with the techniques of lean construction but they don't practice. The findings have also pointed out that the lean construction approach adds a positive impact especially on quality, safety, cost, productivity, and environmental level. The top-ranked challenges to implementing lean construction are: lack of awareness and skill, poor management, traditional culture and attitude of employees, inadequate resources and equipment and nonuse of modern techniques and technologies. Originality/value This study reveals real scenario of lean construction in Bangladesh. It contributes to the body of knowledge, as it uncovers for the first time the awareness level, benefits and challenges to implement lean construction with reference to the social, economic and cultural context of Bangladesh. Exploring the findings, the study could help the stakeholders, construction firms, academician, researchers and government to focus their effort and resources on the significantly appropriate issues. Again, the study may be beneficial to developing countries especially in South Asia which share the same socio-economic status with Bangladesh.

Traditional construction management techniques are criticized by its inability to deliver construction projects on time, with the quality requested by the customer, and without cost overrun. It has become crucial for Moroccan construction practitioners to seek creative approach and to look for new ways of thinking in order to resist to the increasing competition and to survive with market constraints, especially when compared to the significant improvements achieved in the Moroccan manufacturing industry. Lean Construction (LC) is a very effective approach to design production systems for the purpose of reducing waste of time, of materials, and effort as well as generating the maximum possible amount of value. Lean construction has been introduced into the Moroccan construction industry; however, it is still in its infancy. Based on a structured questionnaire survey, this article aims to evaluate the perceptions of the Moroccan construction professionals on the Lean Construction implementation in the Moroccan construction industry. To achieve this objective, a total of 330 responses were collected and then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS V20.0 for Windows). The following conclusions were made, more than half of the respondents (172 professional; 52.1%) think that Lean Construction approach is adapted to any size of Moroccan companies; the respondents agreed that Lean Construction implementation would add positive impacts to the Moroccan construction projects (with an overall mean value of 3.84); LC is a high priority for the Moroccan construction projects (with an overall mean value of 3.84).

The implementation of lean construction is very important in the construction industry to reduce waste and increase productivity. To ensure its effective implementation, clear and measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are necessary. Therefore, this research aimed to develop SMART-based KPIs (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound) for lean construction implementation, which measure indicators throughout the project life cycle. In this context, both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect data. Quantitative data were collected through surveys, assessing the perceptions of respondents concerning KPIs that had been developed. Meanwhile, qualitative data were collected through interviews and expert Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), which included in-depth analysis and conclusions regarding lean construction KPIs. The results produced were KPIs that could be used to measure effectiveness in implementing lean construction, particularly for building projects in Indonesia. Consequently, this research provided new views concerning effective lean construction, which could be explored in more depth and implemented for stakeholders in the construction industry. This development could eventually improve project performance by reducing waste and increasing productivity in construction projects.

Innovative construction management method: Assessment of lean construction implementation

PurposeLean construction provides innovative practices to manage construction projects while reducing waste and improving performance. This paper aims to explore the current level of awareness of lean construction practices among Moroccan construction professionals to assess the potential benefits derived from lean construction practices and to identify the critical barriers hindering a successful implementation.Design/methodology/approachThe paper opted for a quantitative approach by using a structured questionnaire survey. A total of 330 valid responses were collected from Moroccan construction practitioners involved in private and public construction organisations.FindingsThe results show that 61 per cent of the respondents are familiar with lean construction practices. The findings have also pointed out that the lean construction approach adds a positive impact, specifically on quality, safety and environmental level. In addition, the main barriers hindering a successful lean construction deployment in Morocco are lack of knowledge about lean construction philosophy, unskilled human resources and insufficient financial resources.Originality/valueThis study provides a new insight into the implementation of lean construction in Morocco. It contributes to the body of knowledge, as it uncovers for the first time the level of awareness, the potential benefits derived from lean construction practices and the barriers to implementing lean construction in the Moroccan construction industry. Exploring the current state of lean construction implementation can help practitioners, companies and researchers in the Moroccan construction industry to focus their effort and resources on the significant issues necessary to assist a successful implementation of lean construction. Furthermore, the findings of this study could prove valuable to other countries in Africa, especially those sharing similarities to the Moroccan context.

Purpose– The contribution of lean construction techniques in sustainable construction cannot be over emphasised, as sustainable development is now enshrined in government policy. In addition, lean construction is now faced with the challenges of sustainable development, continuous improvement, waste elimination, a stronger user focus, increased value for money along with high quality management of projects and supply chains, and improved communications. This paper presents an exploratory study from extant literature and the results of the use of questionnaire survey among construction participants to explore the contribution of implementing lean construction techniques in sustainable construction.Design/methodology/approach– Surveys of UK-based construction professional were conducted. The data collected were analysed with SPSS 19.0 version software using the percentile method, Cronbach ' sαreliability test, Kruskal Wallis test, Kendall ' s coefficient of concordance and one samplet-test.Findings– Results from this study indicate that there are several benefits associated with implementation of lean construction and sustainable construction. The overall perspective of professionals within the construction industry, according to questionnaire survey, shows that benefits such as improved corporate image and sustainable competitive advantage, improved process flow and productivity, improvement in environmental quality and increased compliance with customer ' s expectations are realised following integration of principles of lean construction and sustainable construction within construction industry. Just-in-time, visualisation tool, value analysis, daily huddle meetings and value stream mapping are the most common lean tools/techniques for enabling sustainability. This study also identified several areas of linkage between lean and sustainability such as waste reduction, environmental management, value maximisation, and health and safety improvement among others.Originality/value– The originality of this paper lies in its consideration of lean construction principles to better understand its impact on sustainable construction. This research contributes to the awareness of the benefits that can be derived from the implementation of lean construction in sustainable construction within the construction industry.

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the application of lean construction practices in the construction industry and develop a practical and applicable framework that incorporates Six Sigma rating into the best practices of lean construction. The objective is to help the industry reduce waste and cost, increase effectiveness, and improve quality.Design/methodology/approachA generic yet practical framework of lean construction is developed using the guidelines of project lean delivery system developed by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). Applicable lean techniques and Six Sigma rating are integrated into the developed framework. A cyclical look‐ahead planning and execution approach is used to implement the lean construction techniques. A set of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) performance indicators is defined to measure performance, set target threshold values, and guide improvement actions. A case study of the construction industry in Abu Dhabi (AD) is used to clarify the proposed approach and identify its key practical aspects.FindingsAnalysis of wastes in AD construction industry reveals 27 types of construction wastes. These wastes were categorized into the seven types of wastes. Defects (errors and corrections) are found to be the most common type of construction waste in the surveyed companies. This calls for integrating Six Sigma rating into the proposed lean construction framework. The other common types of wastes are overprocessing and delays. Lean project management is focused on assessing a set of key performance indictors (KPIs) at the end of each “look‐ahead” period. First lean practices are employed during the period and Sigma Rating is assessed at the end of the period along with other KPIs. The proposed LSS‐KPIs were able to measure progress and guide improvement.Research limitations/implicationsThe credibility of the research findings is dependent on the accuracy and reliability of collected data from construction companies. Implementing lean construction techniques within a look‐ahead period is not expected to achieve significant project gains in terms of quality, speed, and cost without adopting the overall lean construction framework.Social implicationsThe work of construction companies largely contributes to the quality and safety of public and society at large through residential and commercial buildings, transportation, and infrastructure projects. Lean construction practices and Six Sigma rating positively impact these important aspects and often result in reducing waste and costs, improving safety, and saving energy resources in construction projects.Originality/valueResearch significance stems from the focus on increasing the effectiveness of the construction industry. Research contributions include the development of an applicable lean construction framework that integrates lean construction practices with Six Sigma rating. This contributes to the effort of applying Lean Six Sigma (LSS) in the vital field of construction. This research prescribes a systematic approach for implementing the proposed framework within a cyclical look‐ahead period and highlights the practical implications of the proposed approach. Also, the research provides an effective periodic measurement system of project effectiveness based on five LSS key performance indices.

The inefficiencies plaguing construction processes have negatively impacted the delivery of construction projects. The South African construction industry is not exempted from this as it is still characterized with overwhelming ineffectiveness in construction project actualization. Lean construction offers a variety of innovative concepts that aids the optimization of construction activities. Despite the benefits of the implementation of lean construction, its adoption is clearly not evident in developing economies. This study empirically assesses the inhibiting factors to the adoption of lean construction in the South African construction industry. Data was collected from construction professionals and was analysed with Exploratory Factor Analysis which revealed four constructs as the barriers to the implementation of lean construction. Conclusively, the study recommended that lean construction should be inculcated in the curricular of higher institutions of learning offering built environment related courses; also construction professional bodies should encourage the mandatory training of professionals as an area of competence in judging registration of professionals. The findings from this study brings to the fore the hurdles faced in the construction industry in the adoption of lean construction, hence giving a clear direction on how best to abate these challenges for the attainment of the benefits of its espousal.

Lean construction has been introduced into the Sri Lankan construction industry to address critical challenges, including waste management and high construction costs due to high material costs and lack of skilled labor. The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which lean construction is implemented in the Sri Lankan building construction industry. This paper presents the findings of a study that investigated the state of lean construction implementation in the Sri Lankan building construction industry using quantitative and qualitative research methods. A questionnaire survey was conducted to obtain the opinions of construction professionals on the types of tools and techniques that support the implementation of lean construction, stages of application of lean methods, and benefits of lean construction to the projects. In addition, interviews were carried out to obtain expert views on the implementation of lean construction, including challenges encountered in the Sri Lankan building construction industry. Primary data collected include 51 completed questionnaires and five expert interviews with building construction industry professionals using a simple random sampling method. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and the chi-square goodness of fit test. The investigation revealed that the 5S concept is the most used lean tool in the industry. It was also revealed that many of the lean methods are applied during the construction stage knowingly and sometimes unknowingly. It is important to note that the results suggest that the reduction of waste is the dominant benefit that the building construction industry receives due to the adaptation of lean construction techniques in Sri Lanka. Lack of technical knowledge, employee resistance to adapting to lean culture, and lack of cooperation were identified as the main challenges. Overall, this study reveals moderate awareness among Sri Lankan construction industry professionals of lean construction and the findings will help the Sri Lankan construction industry to establish strategies for implementing lean construction in line with their project goals to achieve higher productivity.