https://doi.org/10.24928/2023/0150

A Three-Layered Approach for a Lean Subcontractor Procurement Process

Karen El Zind¹, Salam Bakesmati² & Mayssa Kalach³

¹ME Student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, [email protected]
²ME Student, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, [email protected]
³Lecturer, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0002-8997-3911

Abstract

It is generally recognized that subcontractors execute significant parts of construction works. This makes the subcontractor procurement process − from packaging to delivery method selection, budgeting, candidate selection, and so on − a cornerstone for the successful completion of construction projects. While the focus of the extant literature has been mainly steered towards the process of subcontractor selection and its related criteria, little emphasis has been placed on the procurement process itself and its implementation by general contractors. The main purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive lean methodology that may be applied by general contractors to improve subcontractors’ procurement processes. To do so, a three-layered approach is proposed involving the realignment of steps within the process, the application of the choosing-by-advantages methodology, and the introduction of a digitalized subcontractor rating program. Then, the proposed approach is tested on a typical subcontracting procurement process adopted by a well-established construction contracting firm in the Middle East. Results show a significant reduction in the overall duration of the subcontractor procurement process. The offered methodology is viewed as a roadmap that can be generally adopted for reducing rework, eliminating waste, and enhancing the subcontractor selection methodology.

Keywords

Lean construction, standardization, process, supply chain management.

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Reference

El Zind, K. , Bakesmati, S. & Kalach, M. 2023. A Three-Layered Approach for a Lean Subcontractor Procurement Process , Proceedings of the 31st Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC31) , 1652-1661. doi.org/10.24928/2023/0150

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