Lean concurrent submittal review systems

Abstract

General constructors prepare submittal documents using a push system, thus generating a submittal inventory. The submitted documents are subject to amendment and re-review due to change orders, resulting in waste through rework. The objective of this research is to develop a Lean Concurrent Submittal Review System (LCSRS) to reduce waste in the submittal review process. In the system, a stable construction process is established by integrating the various stakeholders. Submittal documents are pulled by construction status to decrease submittal inventory, thus reducing the impact of change orders on construction flow. To validate the applicability of the proposed system, computer simulation models are constructed using eM-Plant software, allowing for comparisons between regular and lean review systems. Experimental results show that the proposed LCSRS can reduce submittal inventory and change order impact, while promoting stable construction flow. This study is one of the first to apply lean manufacturing to the submittal review process in the construction industry. The proposed system could be used as a platform to promote collaboration between general contractors and supervisory units.