34th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 34) - Singapore, Singapore - 2026

https://doi.org/10.24928/2026/0193

A lean framework for modern methods of construction workforce transition in Australia

Laura Gutierrez-Bucheli1 & Duncan W. Maxwell2

1Research Fellow, Future Building Initiative, Monash Art, Design & Architecture, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0003-3764-7855
2Associate Professor, Future Building Initiative, Monash Art, Design & Architecture, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0002-9039-1441

Abstract

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) are gaining momentum globally as a response to construction productivity challenges and housing shortages. While previous research has documented changes required in business models, supply chains, and production processes to facilitate MMC adoption, recent studies reveal that MMC demands new skillsets across the built environment value chain and new roles that differ from traditional construction occupations. Yet formal qualification systems have been slow to respond, creating misalignment between what MMC requires and what education systems can deliver. This paper proposes a lean framework for MMC workforce transition that addresses three systemic challenges: qualification systems that cannot keep pace with industry needs, occupational boundaries that inhibit cross-functional skill development, and governance structures that impede coordinated response. Drawing on lean principles supported by platform thinking, the framework is designed to embed responsiveness into workforce development. The framework is grounded in two applied research projects conducted in partnership with skills organisations, vocational education providers, and industry peak bodies in Australia. While focused on the Australian context, the paper situates these challenges within international MMC adoption trends, offering insights for other jurisdictions. The paper contributes to Lean Construction scholarship by integrating lean and platform thinking for MMC workforce development.

Keywords

Modern methods of construction, industrialised construction, lean construction, platform thinking, construction education.

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Reference in APA 7th edition format:

Gutierrez-Bucheli, L. & Maxwell, D. W.. (2026). A lean framework for modern methods of construction workforce transition in Australia. In Hamzeh, F., Poshdar, M., & Garcia-Lopez,, N. P. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 34th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 34) (pp. 751–762). https://doi.org/10.24928/2026/0193

Shortened reference for use in IGLC papers:

Gutierrez-Bucheli, L. & Maxwell, D. W.. (2026). A lean framework for modern methods of construction workforce transition in Australia. IGLC34. https://doi.org/10.24928/2026/0193

 

Founded in 1993, the IGLC is an international network of researchers from practice and academia in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) who feel that the practice, education, and research of the AEC industry have to be radically renewed in order to respond to the global challenges ahead.

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