@CONFERENCE{Abduh2006, author={Abduh, Muhamad and Roza, Hengki A. }, editor={ }, title={Indonesian Contractors' Readiness Towards Lean Construction}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={543-549}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/402}, affiliation={Associate Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Jl. Ganesha No. 10, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung 40132, Indonesia, Phone/Fax: +62 22-2502272, abduh@si.itb.ac.id ; Graduate Student, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Jl. Ganesha No. 10, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung 40132, Indonesia, Phone/Fax: +62 22-2502272, hengki_ar@yahoo.com }, abstract={This paper discusses development of an assessment model and its implementation to measure the readiness of Indonesian contractors towards lean construction and to identify which parts of lean construction principles and techniques the Indonesian contractors still lack and need improvements and promotion. The model measures contractors' readiness by observing how the contractors perform their business practices at project level and rating the practices to lean construction principles. Six major building construction projects, conducted by three big wellknown contractors, were assessed as case studies. The results of the case studies conclude convergent findings since those contractors have almost similar business processes at their project levels. The case studies also revealed that big Indonesian contractors have already implemented macro lean construction principles, i.e., the policy to have continuous improvement and to promote transparency. Meanwhile, on micro principles of lean construction, i.e., reduction of cycle time and reduction of variability, the Indonesian big contractors still lack of awareness and ability to implement the principles and techniques. It is also found that Indonesian big contractors still lack the capability to plan good work flow for reducing the cycle time of their construction operations. }, author_keywords={Assessment model, contractor, lean construction, readiness. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Al-Sasi2006, author={Al-Sasi, Basil and Brown, David C. }, editor={ }, title={An on-Site Material Handling Calculation Model}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={383-392}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/403}, affiliation={PhD Student, Construction Management Research Group, School of Civil Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, United Kingdom, contact boas@soton.ac.uk. ; Lecturer, Construction Management Research Group, School of Civil Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, United Kingdom, +44 (0) 23 80592938 dcb@soton.ac.uk }, abstract={The efficiency of the UK construction industry is estimated to be between 40 and 60%. To improve this situation many new ideas are being investigated. This paper reports on research being conducted to improve the way that materials are delivered to and moved around construction sites. The research uses four different models taken from operational research to produce a materials handling schedule for each commodity required for the construction project. The optimum schedule is the one which best matches the project objectives which will be lowest cost, shortest time or maximising the output from the available resources. The model is being tested on two construction sites at the University of Southampton and reduced cycle times for a number of operations }, author_keywords={Lean construction, material handling, scheduling }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Alves2006, author={Alves, Thais da C.L. and Tommelein, Iris D. and Ballard, Glenn }, editor={ }, title={Simulation as a Tool for Production System Design in Construction}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={341-353}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/404}, affiliation={Visiting Scholar, Structural Engineering and Construction Department, Federal University of Ceará, Campus do Pici, s/n, Bloco 710, Pici, CEP: 60455-760, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, Phone: +55 85 3366-9607, Ext. 36, thaiscla@yahoo.com ; Professor and Vice Chair of Instruction, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 510/643-8678, FAX 510/643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu ; Associate Adjunct Professor, Civil and Envir. Engrg. Department, 215 McLaughlin Hall, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, FAX 510/643-8919, ballard@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={In this paper, the authors discuss the concepts of variability, buffers, and batches, as well as the interactions between them. The discussion aims at contributing to the identification of factors that impact production systems design, which includes the definition of buffer locations, buffer profiles, batch sizes, etc. The authors use a simulation model developed using STROBOSCOPE to represent five different scenarios for planning, fabrication, shipping, and installation of sheet metal ductwork in order to illustrate how production system design choices may affect the lead time needed to deliver a project. The data used to develop the model was obtained from time studies performed by the authors as well as from interviews conducted with field superintendents. In order to develop the model, the authors needed basic information about activities pertaining to the delivery of sheet metal ductwork. Modeled durations and quantities are approximations based on the data collected. The model highlights the need for and importance of reliable data when designing production systems and simulation models thereof. Effort needs to be put in by the construction industry and researchers to gather more representative sets of data that can be used to design production systems. }, author_keywords={Simulation, production system design, buffers, batches. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Alves2006, author={Alves, Thais da C. L. and Tommelein, Iris D. }, editor={ }, title={Investigation of Buffer Dynamics in Sheet Metal Ductwork Supply Chains}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={309-315}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/405}, affiliation={Visiting Scholar, Structural Engineering and Construction Department, Federal University of Ceará, Campus do Pici, s/n, Bloco 710, Pici, CEP: 60455-760, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, Phone: +55 85 3366-9607, Ext. 36, thaiscla@yahoo.com ; Professor and Vice Chair of Instruction, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 510/643-8678, FAX 510/643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={The model discussed in this paper represents the interactions between design changes, site work, and fabrication shop work for make-to-order products. Being qualitative in nature, it serves as a basis for discussing how inventory and buffers are created in the Sheet Metal Ductwork Supply Chain due to changes in design and installation sequences. The authors chose to model changes in schedule and design because industry practitioners indicated that these are the main causes for variations that disrupt contractors’ work flow. The authors highlight selected feedback links between activities to discuss the implications of communication, timing of demand, and product standardization vs. customization. A number of insights into the model can be abstracted to other supply chains in construction. Other supply chains in construction (e.g., electrical systems, architectural components, precast concrete) can benefit from the analysis as presented. }, author_keywords={HVAC Ductwork, supply chain, buffers, information management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Arbulu2006, author={Arbulu, Roberto and Soto, Javier }, editor={ }, title={A Design Case Study: Integrated Product and Process Management}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={107-119}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/406}, affiliation={Implementation Leader, Strategic Project Solutions Inc., 1040 Battery St., San Francisco, CA 94111, USA, Phone: 1-415-362-3200, email: rarbulu@strategicprojectsolutions.net ; Project Manager, Graña y Montero S.A., Av. Paseo de la República 4675, Lima 34, Perú, Phone: 1- (511) 213- 0444, email: jsoto@gym.com.pe }, abstract={Traditional design practices in construction indicate that most of the emphasis appears to be on product design. This may be the result of the traditional process of design-bid-build, where the design team pre-defines means and methods to the contracting team. In contrast, lean design incorporates not only product design, but also process design. Process design is commonly one of the components missing in traditional practices together with the lack of supporting systems, organizational structures, and resources required to obtain a quality design. This paper presents a case study that describes an integrated approach to manage product and process in design. The case study builds on the design phase for the construction of The Central Bus Station project in the city of Lima, Peru. The case study discusses several topics including working with cross-functional design teams, using pull to prioritize detailed engineering, applying collaborative mapping to identify design constraints so variability is minimized, measuring plan reliability, reasons for non-completion and root cause analysis, and capturing lessons learned as part of a continuous improvement process. The case study describes the use of key tools for product and process management. Preliminary results are presented including on-time completion of design milestones, customer satisfaction, better understanding of implementation constraints and challenges, and increased transparency in the overall design process. This case study represents the first implementation of lean techniques in design in the Peruvian construction industry. }, author_keywords={Cross-functional teams, design, digital prototypes, production control, production system, pull, reliability, workflow. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Arbulu2006, author={Arbulu, Roberto and Zabelle, Todd }, editor={ }, title={Implementing Lean in Construction: How to Succeed}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={553-565}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/407}, affiliation={Implementation Leader, Strategic Project Solutions Inc., 1040 Battery St., San Francisco, CA 94111, USA, Phone: 1-415-362-3200, email: rarbulu@strategicprojectsolutions.net ; President, Strategic Project Solutions Inc., 1040 Battery St., San Francisco, CA 94111, USA, Phone: 1-415-362- 3200, email: tzabelle@strategicprojectsolutions.net }, abstract={Implementing lean means an organization (project or enterprise) transforms itself from a current state to a future state vision that incorporates a lean ideal. This paper proposes a strategy for organizations to increase the likelihood of success when going through a lean transformation. This approach considers construction projects as the basis for transformation, and proposes a narrow and deep implementation approach for the transformation effort. The paper highlights key elements for a successful implementation including vision, skills, incentives, resources, and detailed action plans. It reinforces the need for heavy-weight project leadership to control behavioral development during the transformation and presents a series of concepts and techniques that support a better understanding of human and team behavior. The paper concludes with a series of recommendations for organizations that envision a transformation event towards lean project delivery. }, author_keywords={Behavioral development, change, construction, implementation, lean, resistance, transformation }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Arbulu2006, author={Arbulu, Roberto }, editor={ }, title={Application of PULL and CONWIP in Construction Production Systems}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={215-226}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/408}, affiliation={Implementation Leader, Strategic Project Solutions Inc., 1040 Battery St., San Francisco, CA 94111, USA, Phone: 1-415-362-3200, email: rarbulu@strategicprojectsolutions.net }, abstract={One of the main characteristics of construction is that work flows through temporary production systems from the start to the end of a project. The way the production system is designed has a major influence in the outcome of the project. This paper presents a case study on rebar that illustrates how the application of PULL and CONWIP techniques can drastically improve value delivered. Benefits include reduction in physical inventories, an increase on transparency across the production system, reduction in variability levels for both demand and supply, lead time reduction, and better collaboration amongst stakeholders. }, author_keywords={CONWIP, demand, lean, production control, PULL, production system, reliability, supply, WIP. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Azambuja2006, author={Azambuja, Marcelo M. B. and Isatto, Eduardo L. and Marder, Tiago S. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={ }, title={The Importance of Commitments Management to the Integration of Make-to- Order Supply Chains in Construction Industry}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={609-623}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/409}, affiliation={PhD Candidate, Construction Engineering and Project Management (CEPM), University of Texas at Austin, e- mail: azambuja@mail.utexas.edu Ph.D., Assistant Lecturer at Building ; Ph.D., Assistant Lecturer at Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) – Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), e-mail: isatto@cpgec.ufrgs.br ; M.Sc.,Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) – Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), e- mail: tiagomarder@cpgec.ufrgs.br ; Ph.D., Associate Professor at Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) – Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), e-mail: formoso@ufrgs.br }, abstract={Most causes of the inefficiency in construction supply chains are related to managerial issues, including the poor management of commitments among their members and the lack of integration of managerial processes along the chain. This paper discusses those problems in two case studies carried out in the building elevator and cut and bend rebar supply chains. As in many of construction supply chains, both configurations are characterized by their make- to-order nature, the delivery of customized products to their customers and by having their production based on final design specifications. Focusing on the flow of information along the supply chain, the objective of this paper is to assess how the integration of these make-to- order supply chains’ processes is affected by the way commitments among chain members are coordinated. By undertaking a detailed description of both supply chains’ processes and analyzing their existing problems, the study shows that a major part of them are related to the poor integration of the information flows. The Language Action Perspective (LAP) was used to provide an additional approach for analysis, emphasizing the commitments involved in the information sharing among supply chain agents. The LAP analysis revealed that the root cause of those problems relies mainly on the poor management of commitments among supply chain members. Moreover, many of the problems could be avoided by explicitly planning the flow of commitments that are made necessary by inter-organizational processes as well as by organization's internal processes. The adoption of the LAP and the focus on the flow of commitments may support the understanding of make-to-order supply chains integration problems as well as suggest actions towards the integration of their processes. }, author_keywords={Supply Chain Management, Make-to-order, information flow, Language/Action perspective, commitments management. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ballard2006, author={Ballard, Glenn }, editor={ }, title={Rethinking Project Definition in Terms of Target Costing}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={77-89}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/410}, affiliation={Professor, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, 215 McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 510/530-1743, FAX 510/530-1920, ballard@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={That phase of projects that immediately precedes design has been called by a variety of names, including design briefing, programming, front end loading, and project definition. It is widely agreed that this project definition phase is often ill performed, resulting in the design and construction of facilities that do not satisfy their purchasers or users. A number of lean construction theorists, including this author, have made contributions to rethinking project definition as a phase within lean project delivery. Target costing is a methodology developed by manufacturers of consumer products to systematically improve product profitability, and is now being adapted for use in the delivery of construction projects. Target costing starts with setting a target cost, which is a very complex and difficult process in construction as compared to manufacturing. In this paper, project definition is revisited as the phase in which target costs are set. Both traditional and lean project definition models are reviewed, a philosophy and approach are presented and grounded in case studies, and a research agenda is put forward for project definition/setting target cost. }, author_keywords={Customer, customer value, design, design brief, design concept, design criteria, predesign, programming, project definition, target cost, value }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Beary2006, author={Beary, Thanveer M. and Abdelhamid, Tariq S. }, editor={ }, title={Prioritizing Production Planning Problems and Normalizing Percent Plan Complete Data Using Six Sigma}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={455-465}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/411}, affiliation={Project Controls Engineer, Jay Dee Contractors, Inc., 38881 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia, MI- 48150. Email: tmohammed@jaydeecontr.com ; Assistant Professor, 207 Farrall Hall, Construction Management Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1323. Email: tabdelha@msu.edu }, abstract={The Last Planner System (LPS), with its now-famous PPC metric, has been used on many projects and has proven to be an effective production planning and control tool. Application of the LPS typically results in unearthing numerous problems with the production planning process and procedures that a contractor utilizes. With limited time and budgets, the construction manager needs a method to prioritize the process improvement initiatives to undertake. This paper explores the use of six-sigma based metrics and techniques to better reveal the efficacy of the production planning process as well as identify the common-cause and special-cause deviations in the production planning process. The paper will report on the adaptation of sixsigma metrics and techniques to data collected from an actual construction project. The results suggest that the developed tools will assist in focusing process improvement efforts. The sixsigma metric developed also provides a better basis for the normalization of the PPC metric such that intra-company and inter-company production processes can be compared for benchmarking and process improvement purposes. }, author_keywords={Lean Construction, Percent Plan Complete, Control Charts, Last Planner System }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bertelsen2006, author={Bertelsen, Sven and Koskela, Lauri and Henrich, Guilherme and Rooke, John }, editor={ }, title={Critical Flow – Towards a Construction Flow Theory}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={31-32}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/412}, affiliation={MSc, Consulting Engineer, External Lecturer, Danish Technical University, Roennebaervej 10, app 108, 2840 Holte, DK Denmark, Phone +45 4542 4705, sven@bertelsen.org ; Professor, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4 th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2957960, FAX +44 161 2954587, l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. candidate, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4 th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2954143, FAX +44 161 2954587, g.henrich@pgr.salford.ac.uk ; Research Fellow, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4 th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2956344, FAX +44 161 2954587, j.rooke@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={This paper introduces the concept of Construction Physics as a more comprehensive way of understanding the construction process from a flow perspective. It establishes a preliminary definition of the term and investigates briefly the present knowledge, flow models and methods for their management. From this it argues that the state of the art does not fully cover the whole process and proposes a holistic view of the flow of all prerequisites feeding the process. It introduces the key term Critical Flow and concludes by recommending areas that should be investigated as a joint IGLC research, development and testing programme. }, author_keywords={Critical flow, construction physics, flow management, theory, variability }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bjornfot2006, author={Bjornfot, Anders and Sarden, Ylva }, editor={ }, title={Prefabrication: A Lean Strategy for Value Generation in Construction}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={265-277}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/413}, affiliation={Tech. Lic., Div. of Structural Engineering - Timber Structures, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden, Phone +46 920 492067, FAX +46 920 491091, anders.bjornfot@ltu.se ; Tech., Dr., Div. of Structural Engineering - Timber Structures, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden, Phone +46 920 492866, FAX +46 920 491091, ylva.sarden@ltu.se }, abstract={Despite a number of attempts to establish prefabrication as a Lean Construction method, there is still confusion of what prefabrication provides to the management of the construction process. It seems as if prefabrication can provide a means of dealing with value stream fluctuations in highly complex situations, such as a traditional construction project where it is difficult to define client value accurately. The prefabrication decision and the strategies for meeting customer demands have been studied for three Swedish producers of prefabricated timber components for multi-storey housing construction. The case study results indicate that the Swedish construction industry is slowly changing from a traditional project based generation of customer value to offering specific products, adaptable by the customer to suit their own view on value. A prefabrication strategy where a well defined and tested product is offered to customers has the effect of redistributing resources from the design process to the value stream. Such redistribution enables companies with a well developed prefabrication strategy to better control the value stream and to implement new and better ways of meeting customer requirements while continuously improving their work and eliminating waste. }, author_keywords={Lean Thinking, Multi-storey timber housing, Prefabrication, Product offer, Value generation. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bølviken2006, author={Bølviken, Trond }, editor={ }, title={10 Statements on Production and Construction Theory}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={67-73}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/414}, affiliation={Director, Business Development and Strategy, Veidekke Entreprenør AS, Postboks 506 Skøyen, N-0214 Oslo, trond.bolviken@veidekke.no (Veidekke Entreprenør AS is a Norwegian subsidiary of Veidekke ASA, one of the major Scandinavian construction and real-estate-development companies) }, abstract={Koskela sees production as the production of value through a flow of transformations. He analyses peculiarities characterizing the construction industry, and advocates elimination and mitigation strategies in order to reduce the disadvantages related to these peculiarities. This paper sees industrialised production as production of commodities through a flow of transformations. The commodities are seen as having dual character, possessing both use- value and price (exchange value). Within “the Lean Construction – movement” the understanding and examination of the commercial dimensions of construction is far behind the understanding of more technical or organisational issues like planning and scheduling. The commodity-term, distinguishing between the use- and monetary value-dimensions, should also be able to contribute to a better understanding of the commercial dimensions of construction. A specific industry is characterized by its specific peculiarities. This means that the existence of peculiarities is not something that is specific only to the construction industry, but which is found in all industries. As a consequence, elimination and mitigation of peculiarities in order to reduce disadvantages can no longer be seen as sufficient strategies. This paper also sees peculiarities as a potential advantage, and advocates strategies where these potential advantages are explored. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bortolazza2006, author={Bortolazza, Rodrigo C. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={ }, title={A Quantitative Analysis of Data Collected From the Last Planner System in Brazil}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={625-635}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/415}, affiliation={ }, abstract={In Brazil, a large number of companies have implemented the Last Planner system in order to improve the performance of their production systems. However, most research studies developed so far have emphasized the analysis of qualitative data, based on a small number of case studies. Therefore, there seems to be a good opportunity to learn more about production control by analyzing data from a larger sample of projects, based on performance measures such as the percentage of plans completed (PPC) and the causes for the non completion of work packages. This paper presents further developments of a research project that was first presented at the IGLC13 Conference. It is based on data from 133 projects. Some of them have been investigated in previous research projects at the Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). The remaining data have been provided by companies that have been using the Last Planner system for several years. At first, the average PPC and the reasons for the non completion of tasks were analysed using descriptive statistics. In a sample of 96 projects multivariate regression analysis was used for explaining the variance of weekly PPC, using as independent variables the causes for non completion of work packages, number of assignments completed and timing of the projects. The results indicated that a major problem in most projects is the lack of effective implementation of look-ahead planning. Moreover, for multivariate regression analysis, some causes for the non completion of work packages, such as work force and planning have a strong contribution for explaining the variance of weekly PPC. }, author_keywords={Last Planner, performance measurement, multivariate regression analysis }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bulhões2006, author={Bulhões, Iamara Rossi and Picchi, Flavio Augusto and Folch, Alex T. }, editor={ }, title={Actions to Implement Continuous Flow in the Assembly of Pre-Fabricated Concrete Structure}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={407-419}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/416}, affiliation={PhD student, Architecture and Construction Department, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Urban Design, Univ. of Campinas, Campinas/SP, Brazil, iamara@fec.unicamp.br. ; Professor, Architecture and Construction Department, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Urban Design, and Director, Lean Institute Brazil. Av. Albert Einstein, 951, Caixa Postal 6021, Univ. of Campinas, Campinas/SP, Brazil, CEP 13084-971, Phone +55 19/3788-2082, fpicchi@fec.unicamp.br ; Civil Eng., Technology and Quality Director, MUNTE Industrialized Constructions, Ltda. , atf@munte.com.br. }, abstract={Most production systems in the construction industry have a large number of interruptions in the work of gangs, resulting in waste and under-utilization of resources. Such interruptions are typically caused by variability in the production system and lack of synchronization of processes. This paper discusses the implementation of continuous flow in the process of assembling the pre-fabricated concrete structure of an industrial building, located in the State of S Paulo, Brazil. The implementation process was mostly based on Lean Thinking principles, involving tools for creating continuous flow. Action-research was the research strategy adopted for developing this study, which was divided into two main stages: (a) implementation of production control for making the production system minimally stable; (b) implementation of a proposed assembling sequence and rhythm, based on a small batch repetitive cycle. The implementation was successful in terms of reducing the cycle time, improving the productivity in the assembling process, reducing waste in the utilization of cranes, and, specially, increasing stability of the assembly process. }, author_keywords={Continuous flow, pre-fabrication, Lean Thinking, small batch, increasing stability }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Codinhoto2006, author={Codinhoto, Ricardo and Koskela, Lauri and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia and Kagioglou, Mike }, editor={ }, title={How Analysis and Synthesis Have Been Understood in Design}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={121-134}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/417}, affiliation={The University of Salford, School of Construction & Property Management, Salford M5 4WT, United Kingdom, E-mail: r.codinhoto@salford.ac.uk ; The University of Salford, School of Construction & Property Management, Salford M5 4WT, United Kingdom, E-mail: l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk ; he University of Salford, School of Construction & Property Management, Salford M5 4WT, United Kingdom, E-mail: p.tzortzopoulos@salford.ac.uk ; The University of Salford, School of Construction & Property Management, Salford M5 4WT, United Kingdom, E-mail: m.kagioglou@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={In the disciplines related to the design of products and services, such as New Product Development and Design Science, there is a lack of a commonly accepted theoretical and methodical basis. This papers starts with the proposition that the ancient method of analysis and synthesis, developed originally by Greek geometers, is the basis of models that have been used to classify and describe the ill structured design problem. In this paper, we examine the possibility of improving our understanding of the design process and therefore lean design management by bringing to light a discussion about the concepts of analysis and synthesis and how these have been interpreted through time. Also, how this concept has been used within engineering design methods. To do so, we investigate how analysis and synthesis have been understood in the literature, indicating similarities and differences between ancient and current understandings. }, author_keywords={Analysis and synthesis, design process, engineering design }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Court2006, author={Court, Peter and Pasquire, Christine and Gibb, Alistair and Bower, David }, editor={ }, title={Design of a Lean and Agile Construction System for a Large and Complex Mechanical and Electrical Project}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/418}, affiliation={Research Engineer, Dept of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, UK ; Dept of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, UK ; Dept of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, UK ; Principle Fellow, Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, UK }, abstract={This paper represents “work-in-progress” as part of a collaborative research project being undertaken at the Centre for Innovative Collaborative Engineering for an Engineering Doctorate at Loughborough University, UK. The programme is funded by the EPSRC and is sponsored by a major UK mechanical and electrical contractor (the sponsor company). The project will have specific objectives, which will be capable of making a significant contribution to the performance of the company. The sponsor company is developing a “construction system” in order to improve the performance of its projects, and earlier research in this field has shown that lean interventions, when applied to a case study project, has had positive results. This paper describes the next phase of the development of the construction system, and proposes a lean and agile production system model which is to be implemented on a major private finance initiative (PFI) hospital development, and in particular the mechanical and electrical (M&E) elements. The model builds upon a “leagile” concept developed from manufacturing theory, and shows how the need for leanness and agility depends upon a total supply chain and labour strategy. }, author_keywords={Construction system, performance improvement, lean interventions, lean and agile, mechanical and electrical, leagile, total supply chain, labour }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Esquenazi2006, author={Esquenazi, Alberto and Sacks, Rafael }, editor={ }, title={Evaluation of Lean Improvements in Residential Construction Using Computer Simulation}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={137-149}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/419}, affiliation={Graduate Student, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-54-6210370, alberto@mexicoisrael.com ; Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8293190, cvsacks@techunix.technion.ac.il }, abstract={Changes to apartment designs initiated by clients are an inherent part of residential construction. Competition for customers where supply exceeds demand, and increasingly sophisticated consumers, have forced construction companies to accept the phenomenon. However, client changes delivered during construction adversely affect the stability and flow of work at the construction site. To cope with this challenge, three main changes were suggested to the traditional approach of construction of high-rise residential buildings: reduce the batch size to single apartments, work with multi-skilled teams and schedule work with a pull controlled system. To evaluate these three changes, Sacks and Goldin developed a management simulation game, called ‘LEAPCON ™ ’, which simulates the construction process of an eight story building with 32 apartments using Lego ® pieces. Repeated executions of the live game indicated reduced cycle times, cash flow and levels of work in progress, and improved throughput. However, investigation of the separate and combined influences of each intervention could not be measured, nor could the performance indicators be monitored through time. Thus computerized discrete event simulation was needed for more complete evaluation of the three lean management changes. Twelve computerized simulations were built using the Stroboscope ® program. It was found that each one of the interventions improved one or more of the parameters of interest, while different combinations of them also improved some of the results. Reduced batch size improved cash flow and work in progress; multi-skilled teams improved labour utilization rates, and pull flow enabled execution of all client changes. However, application of all three interventions in unison was essential for achieving the anticipated results simultaneously. }, author_keywords={High-rise apartment construction, production system design, computer simulation }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Folkestad2006, author={Folkestad, James E. }, editor={ }, title={Concurrent Design for Production (Cdp): Materializing Interface Knowledge on a Us Residential Construction Project Using Computer Aided Design Objects}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={319-330}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/420}, affiliation={Associate Professor, Construction Management, Department, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, Phone +1 970/491-7823, FAX 970/491-2473, folkestad@colostate.edu }, abstract={The concept that design is a social process is well established in the research literature. Following the tradition of ethnographic methods used to study design in context, this paper describes a 12-month research study conducted with a US residential homebuilder. The study utilizes the concurrent design process to elicit tacit interface knowledge and explicitly define it using 3D CAD models. Three-dimensional CAD graphics were used as a concurrent design tool to provide visual representations of product and actor interfaces. More importantly, these tools created conversations that otherwise would not have taking place in traditional design process. Out of necessity, and following the spirit of the concurrent design process, the tool was modified to include intermediate production objects (IPOs) for transferring production details to field level workers. The concept of concurrent design for production (CDP) is introduced as an extension of concurrent design that provides a method for improving onsite construction processes. }, author_keywords={Concurrent design for production, production, residential construction, Computer Aided Design (CAD) }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Gallardo2006, author={Gallardo, Carlos Antonio Samaniego and Granja, Ariovaldo Denis and Picchi, Flavio Augusto and Folch, Alex Tort }, editor={ }, title={Stabilization and Standardization of a Precast Production Process}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={205-213}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/421}, affiliation={Civil Eng., M. Sc. Candidate at GTE/Unicamp, carlosasamaniego@yahoo.com ; Ass. Professor, Construction Management and Technology Research Group (GTE), School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and urban Design, Department of Architecture and Building, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Avenida Albert Einstein, 951, Caixa Postal 6021, Campinas/SP, CEP 13083-852, Brazil, Tel.: +55 19 3788-2082, FAX + 55 19 3788-2411, adgranja@fec.unicamp.br, fpicchi@fec.unicamp.br ; Ass. Professor, Construction Management and Technology Research Group (GTE), School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and urban Design, Department of Architecture and Building, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP). Director, Lean Institute Brasil, Rua Topázio 911, São Paulo/SP, Brazil, CEP 04105-063, Tel.: +55 11 5571-6887, FAX: +55 11 5571-0804, fpicchi@lean.org.br ; Civil Eng., Technology and Quality Director, MUNTE Industrialized Constructions, Ltda. , atf@munte.com.br }, abstract={Adapting and implementing new management techniques based on principles and tools originated in the manufacturing industry have been challenging the construction industry. This research aims to present improvements achieved in the fabrication process of precast concrete roof tiles, after a first stage of diagnosis and basic stabilization of the production process. This work was carried out jointly with a Brazilian company in the state of Sao Paulo, dedicated to the erection and fabrication of pre-cast concrete components. This study is part of an ongoing action-research, where the production process of concrete precast roof tiles fabrication was already analyzed. After a first diagnosis of the production process, lean principles and tools were used to stabilize and standardize the production process of these precast components. Results allow concluding that lean implementations helped with the basic stabilization and standardization of the different work elements involved in the fabrication system of precast concrete roof tiles and could be adapted to other precast concrete components production process, providing higher reliability in the production process and production throughput improvements for these components. }, author_keywords={Precast, roof tiles, stabilization, standardization, production processes }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Garcia2006, author={Garcia, Salvador and Romero, Ariadna and Diaz, Hector and , }, editor={ }, title={Incentive Plans for Mexican Construction Workers}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={525-532}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/422}, affiliation={Professor, Civil and Construction Management. Engineering, Department, 2501 Garza Sada Street, ITESM, Monterrey, NL, Mex, 64849, Phone 52 81552540, sgr@itesm.mx ; Graduated Student, Civil and Construction Management. Engineering, 2501 Garza Sada Street, ITESM, Monterrey, NL, Mex, 64849, Phone 52 81552540, ariadnarb@yahoo.com.mx ; Graduated Student, Civil and Construction Management, Engineering, 2501 Garza Sada Street, ITESM, Monterrey, NL, Mex, 64849, Phone 52 81552540, arqhectordiaz@yahoo.com.mx ; }, abstract={Construction is one of the industries that rely heavily on the worker's performance. The construction worker is responsible for the optimal use of resources and equipment, making him an important part of the project and his performance essential to its accomplishment. The aim of the paper is to propose an incentive scheme for the Mexican construction worker that could assist the firm to achieve its goal in terms of costs, time and quality of its projects. The incentive plan is the direct result of a work study analysis conducted in a firm specialized in the construction and development of low income housing complexes in Mexico. In particular, the study focuses in three types of activities: stucco and plaster application and masonry of concrete block walls. Based on the observations from the methods employed and time spent in each process, with previous identification of the firm's objectives and benchmarks, the monetary incentive schemes are designed to meet the firm's objectives. Furthermore, the proposed incentive scheme is meant to identify the most trained workers and to build a database that could help to keep track and rehired them in the future. However, the main use of the incentive plan is the effect it has on the worker's motivation that could help him to improve his performance. The paper offers numerical results for the three activities under study in terms of productivity indicators, comparison to theoretical benchmarks and evaluation of field personnel and design of effective economic incentives }, author_keywords={Economic incentives, work study, worker's evaluation, performance, productivity }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Gehbauer2006, author={Gehbauer, Fritz and Stock, Patricia and Steffek, Peter }, editor={ }, title={Swarm Intelligence and Ant Colony Approach - Can They Be Applied in Optimizing Construction Processes?}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={15-30}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/423}, affiliation={Professor, Institute for Technology and Management in Construction (TMB), University of Karlsruhe, Am Fasanengarten, D-76128 Karlsruhe, Germany, gehbauer@tmb.uni-karlsruhe.de ; Chief Engineer, ifab-Institute of Human and Industrial Engineering, University of Karlsruhe, Kaiserstraße 12, D-76131 Karlsruhe, Germany, patricia.stock@ifab.uni-karlsruhe.de ; Research Assistant, Institute for Technology and Management in Construction (TMB), University of Karlsruhe, Am Fasanengarten, D-76128 Karlsruhe, Germany, steffek@tmb.uni-karlsruhe.de }, abstract={A swarm can be described as a group of individuals using direct and indirect communication to act without central command with high efficiency in problem solving. For example, the insect society as a whole is extremely efficient due to a sophisticated form of self-organization is based on an indirect communication between its members. This communication is both between the members and their environment. For example the ant behaviour leads to repeatedly finding near optimum strategies in food supply, logistics and formicary construction. Studies of this behaviour have led to the first usable algorithms in the solution of logistical problems, in evolutionary programming and in manufacturing planning and control. A few examples will be presented. This paper will further study the differences between construction intelligence and swarm intelligence and discuss the possibilities to adapt this evolution to systems and problems of construction processes. First considerations have shown that the principles of the existing ant algorithms and simulation tools of manufacturing can be used in construction as well. In case of disturbances fast reorganization of processes can be developed using the algorithm. Modifications have to be made in terms of a number of definitions and system parameters. Any self-organizing system relies on frequent measurement, rapid distribution of information and near optimum reactions. By improving the related abilities construction can be made more transparent and goal-oriented. The paper is concluded with considerations as to whether swarm intelligence and derived algorithms can make a contribution to a construction theory (understanding the processes). }, author_keywords={Swarm Intelligence, ant colony approach, wasp colony approach, managing the process, optimizing construction processes, resource planning }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{González2006, author={González, Vicente and Alarcón, Luis Fernando and Gazmuri, Pedro }, editor={ }, title={Design of Work in Process Buffers in Repetitive Building Projects: A Case Study}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={165-176}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/424}, affiliation={Ph. D. Candidate, Escuela de Ingeniería, Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile. Lecturer, Escuela de Ingeniería de la Construcción, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile. E-Mail: vagonzag@puc.cl ; Professor of Civil Engineering, Escuela de Ingeniería, Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, E-Mail: lalarcon@ing.puc.cl ; Professor of Industrial Engineering, Escuela de Ingeniería, Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, E-Mail: pgazmuri@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={Variability in construction projects usually leads to schedule delays, cost overruns and productivity losses. Among the different techniques and tools employed to manage a construction project the use of buffers is a common approach to handle variability and to protect production processes from its negative impact. Time float, resource inventories and budget contingencies are examples of buffers used in construction in an intuitive and informal way. Empirical evidence recently collected about existing inefficiencies in the use of WIP (Work-in-Process) in construction projects highlights the double-opportunity to improve current practice of WIP and variability management by using WIP as buffers. The paper addresses the use of WIP buffers in construction schedules of repetitive building projects and proposes an approach for WIP buffer design. A discrete simulation model to study the impact of the optimum WIP buffer size on construction schedule was developed and this paper presents its application to a real project (case study). Finally, simulation results and the potential of WIP buffers to implement production strategies based on Lean Construction principles in construction projects are analyzed. }, author_keywords={Buffers, Lean Construction, Simulation Optimization, Variability, Work in Process }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Harel2006, author={Harel, Michael and Sacks, Rafael }, editor={ }, title={Subcontractor Resource Allocation in a Multi-Project Environment – Field Study}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={467-478}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/425}, affiliation={PhD Candidate, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8292245, harelm@techunix.technion.ac.il ; Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8293190, cvsacks@techunix.technion.ac.il }, abstract={Various strategic considerations lead construction companies to reduce their core staff and employ subcontractors. Productivity is a critical determinant of profitability for subcontractors working under unit price contracts. When the flow of work on any project is unstable or unreliable, they are forced to adjust their resource allocations across the multiple projects on which they work in parallel. Earlier research explored subcontractors’ economic motivation; this research explores project managers’ and subcontractors’ behaviours de facto, through 57 in-depth interviews with experienced practitioners. The work focused on the decision-making process in allocating limited resources across multiple projects. Motivating factors other than productivity, such as cash flow, financial exposure, motivation and reputation, project work flow, etc. were explored. The main results show that productivity and work flow are in fact the primary motivating factors; that more than 50% of project managers use push control in a way that prevents subcontractors from achieving their desired productivity rates; that subcontractors believe on average that approximately 60% of the work promised will in fact become available on schedule, and therefore engage in overbooking; and that project managers tend to respond by exaggerating their resource demands by an average 20%. These findings support the hypothesis that mistrust and competition, rather than cooperative behaviour, are the norm. They form the basis for continuing research toward a descriptive theoretical model of the multi-project subcontracted environment. }, author_keywords={Subcontracting, behaviour model, resource allocation, field survey, decision-making }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Henrich2006, author={Henrich, Guilherme and Abbott, Carl and Koskela, Lauri }, editor={ }, title={Drivers for Innovation in Production Management}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={533-541}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/426}, affiliation={Civil Engineer, M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. candidate, School of Construction and Property Management, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 (0)161 2954143, FAX +44 (0)1612954587, g.henrich@pgr.salford.ac.uk ; Senior Researcher, School of Construction and Property Management, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 (0)1612953172, FAX +44 (0)1612954587, c.abbott@salford.ac.uk ; Professor, School of Construction and Property Management, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 (0)1612956378, FAX +44 (0)1612954587, l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={The aim of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of innovative programmes in construction. The term 'best practice' is commonly used in industry in to describe and disseminate cases where high levels of performance have been achieved. Several terminologies are used to describe this phenomenon, the best practice being the most widely used term. Best practices usually stimulate a desire in other companies to achieve similar levels of performance or gains that have been obtained by those best practice companies. This desire for better performance commonly triggers an innovation adoption programme by other companies. However, there are two kinds of drivers to innovation adoption: one is usually started by normative pressures applied by customers, suppliers, regulators or senior management. This type of adoption is called push-driven. On the other hand, there is a pull-driven innovation adoption decision, which is triggered strictly by an internal need associated with a performance gap. Based on this background this paper explores the generation, development and adoption of innovative programmes by industry. }, author_keywords={Best practice, drivers, innovation, production management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Höök2006, author={Höök, Matilda }, editor={ }, title={Customer Value in Lean Prefabrication of Housing Considering Both Construction and Manufacturing}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={583-594}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/427}, affiliation={Tech. Lic., Div. of Structural Engineering - Timber Structures, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden, Phone +46 920 491028, FAX +46 920 491913, matilda.hook@ltu.se }, abstract={Prefabrication increases standardisation and repetitiveness both in processes and products and yields a progress of a construction process that is more comparable to manufacturing than on-site construction. Previous research shows that house prefabrication reduces waste and resolves some of the peculiarities of construction (e.g. one-of-a-kindness, on-site production and a temporary organisation). However, the need for value creation by considering construction peculiarities in prefabrication is also discussed within the IGLC community. Hence, the aim of this research is to contribute to the understanding of how to obtain a lean prefabrication strategy, i.e., a strategy that considers both waste reduction and value generation. To find suggestions for development within value creation of a prefabrication strategy, a multiple case study of the total population of Swedish timber volume element (TVE) prefabrication, and a customer survey of 57 potential and previous real-estate trustees of the TVE building system was performed. The result shows that value generation is connected to meeting customer needs formulated within the deep-rooted culture of construction based on historical knowledge and attitudes. Traditional on-site production is still apparently perceived to allow a higher degree of control, trust and flexibility. To obtain a lean prefabrication strategy both waste reduction, through the use of manufacturing related project orientation, and consideration of the construction culture is therefore needed. Previous researches suggest flexibility, customisation and convincing design have to be met to obtain value generation and this is empirically confirmed by this research. However, the research also shows that a lean prefabrication strategy still has to meet the traditional needs of the process, as control and trust of the production process and the product, trust of the manufacturer together with information transfer, to obtain customer value. Control and trust can be supported by information transfer via strategic alliances and demonstration houses. }, author_keywords={Lean prefabrication, Construction peculiarities, Customer value, Timber volume element housing }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Howell2006, author={Howell, Gregory and Macomber, Hal }, editor={ }, title={What Should Project Management Be Based On?}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={41-50}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/428}, affiliation={Managing Director, Lean Construction Institute, 625 Main Street 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, +1-303-408-1098. ghowell@leanconstruction.org (Also Partner, Lean Project Consulting) ; Partner, Lean Project Consulting, 36 Kirkland Drive, Andover, MA 01810. +1-978-470-8994. hmacomber@leanproject.com. }, abstract={Projects historically have been defined as temporary undertakings carried out by a single purpose organization. Projects and their management can be described and portrayed from a variety of perspectives, each founded on some conceptual basis, hiding or revealing various aspects, and opening or closing some possibilities for action. This paper joins the continuing exploration about the nature of projects and their management. The power of lean approaches in the materiel/information domain is well established and rests on solid conceptual foundations. In this paper we explore projects as human endeavors and how our humanity with all its capacities and limits opens possibilities for improvement. }, author_keywords={Project management, Theory, Language Action Perspective }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Isatto2006, author={Isatto, Eduardo L. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={ }, title={The Inter-Firm Coordination of the Construction Project Supply Chain}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={293-308}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/429}, affiliation={Associate Lecturer at the Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) – Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) – Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99/3rd floor, Porto Alegre, RS 90035-190, Brazil, Phone (+55) 51 3316- 3959, isatto@cpgec.ufrgs.br ; Associate Professor at the Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE) – Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) – Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99/3rd floor, Porto Alegre, RS 90035-190, Brazil, Phone (+55) 51 3316- 3959, formoso@ufrgs.br }, abstract={The application of supply chain management to construction has been a challenging task. An important reason for that is the difference between the industrial context where it was originated and the construction industry. Although the literature suggests that the use of multiple theoretical approaches can provide a comprehensive description and understanding of construction supply chains, so far no framework has been offered for their joint use in practical situations. This paper aims to provide a multi-theoretical approach that can be used to comprehensively describe inter-organizational coordination of construction project supply chains. The use of three theoretical approaches is discussed: the Theory of Coordination (TC), the Transaction Costs Theory (TCT) and the Language/Action Perspective (LAP). A case study is presented to illustrate the joint use of these three theoretical approaches in a practical situation. The study shows that the three theoretical approaches are highly complementary and that their joint use provides a comprehensive view of how such construction project supply chains arise, develop and finally disband. }, author_keywords={Supply chain management, inter-firm coordination, project management. }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Izaguirre2006, author={Izaguirre, Luis E. and Alarcón, Luis F. }, editor={ }, title={Multidimensional Modeling: A Mechanism for Improving Construction Project Management}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={355-368}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/430}, affiliation={Civil Engineer, JJC Contratistas Generales S.A., Lima, Perú, M. Sc., Universidad Católica Chile, e-mail: eizaguirre@jjc.com.pe ; Professor of Civil Engineering, Universidad Católica de Chile, Escuela de Ingeniería, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Fax: 011-562-686-4806, E-mail: lalarcon@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={“Multidimensional Modeling” is an automated, visual and digital representation of various dimensions of a project which uses availably commercial software or an exclusive computational tool. A “Dimension” is any variable that a professional needs to know and analyze in order to manage a construction project, and which can be used during the whole life cycle of the project, from the design stage all the way to the operation stage. The modeled dimensions were the surface, space, time, constructive sequence and the execution strategy, quantity takeoff, cost, safety, and activities performance history. Performance indicators were used to evaluate the use of the model which was proposed as a mechanism for improving construction project management. The validation and evaluation of the multidimensional modeling was performed using the foolproof method for three case studies (Chilean building projects). The use of the multidimensional modeling increased transparency during project execution and simplified the coordination, control and planning processes. This was accompanied by improvements in availability, consistency, accessibility and reliability of information from the project, and with a decrease in uncertainty regarding project scope and performance. Additional observations included improvements in speed and in the decision making process, and improvements in communication among project participants. }, author_keywords={Information Technology, Lean Construction, Multidimensional Modeling, Construction Management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Kemmer2006, author={Kemmer, Sérgio L. and Saraiva, Martina A. and Heineck, Luiz F. M. and Pacheco, Ana Valéria L. and Novaes, Marcos de V. and Mourão, Carlos A. M. A. and Moreira, Luiz C. R. }, editor={ }, title={The Use of Andon in High Rise Building}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={575-582}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/431}, affiliation={M. Sc. Student, Civil Engineering Pos-Graduate Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil, kemmer@ecv.ufsc.br ; Flows Supervisor, C. Rolim Engineering Ltd., Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, martina@crolim.com.br ; Ph.D., Professor, Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil, freitas8@terra.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Quality and Technology Manager, C. Rolim Engineering Ltd., Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, valeria@crolim.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Technical Director, C. Rolim Engineering Ltd., Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, marcosnovaes@crolim.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Logistic and Supply Manager, C. Rolim Engineering Ltd., Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, alexandre@crolim.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Production Manager, C. Rolim Engineering Ltd., Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, luizcarlos@crolim.com.br }, abstract={The Andon device is traditionally used in the manufacturing industry. This visual management tool shows the status of operations in an area and signalizes the occurrence of abnormalities. This research work takes the view that its application is connected to lean construction concepts, as its main function is to identify problems within the production line. It becomes possible to determine the origin of the production disturbances during the building process and not only at the end of it, in a way that the required measures can be taken to avoid the repetition of such problems. It is noticed also that the use of Andon improves the continuous flow of the activities and avoids rework. Moreover it provides operative crews and production managers the opportunity of learning. The application of this managerial tool has gained adepts in construction companies in the Brazilian northeast. The objective of this article is to show the steps for the application of this tool within the building construction environment. This work was developed through a case study in a multi-storey building construction and it encompasses hardware installation (both at the work place and management office), development of control charts, and the production problems analyzes. This study is concluded with the presentation of the results acquired with the use of this managerial tool. The number of work stoppages was reduced significantly, communication was greatly enhanced and transparency was enacted as production problems were readily reported, discussed and analysed. }, author_keywords={Andon, lean construction, building control }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Kim2006, author={Kim, Yong-Woo and Jang, Jin-Woo }, editor={ }, title={Applying Organizational Hierarchical Constraint Analysis to Production Planning}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={371-382}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/432}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Construction Management & Wood Product Engineering Department, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, Phone +1 315/470-6839, ywkim@esf.edu ; Ph.D Candidate, Construction Management & Wood Product Engineering Department, 160 Baker Lab, State University of New York, Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, Phone +1 315/470-6831, jijang@syr.edu }, abstract={Construction management has de-prioritized production planning and control, especially crew- level management while great emphasis has been placed on project management. It is often found that each employee (or the Last Planner) in charge of the constraint removal tends to conceal the information (or problem) until the last responsible moment (L.R.M.) passes. This may happen because that the employee does not want to reveal that he/she has an unresolved constraint fearing that it will be interpreted as incompetence. There are times when the Last Planner is not in an ultimate position of authority, thus sometimes he/she is expected to solve constraints over which he/she has no control. When this arises, there is often an inefficient attempt by the Last Planner to eliminate these constraints, thus making the situation worse. Greater informational transparency would help to solve this problem. Due to a movement that focuses on crew-level planning and control, the authors suggest in this paper that responsibility be assigned to, or shared with, the appropriate level of organizational management as constraints are identified in the look-ahead window. The organizational hierarchical constraint analysis is defined in this paper as submitting problems to the level of management best suited to solving specific constraints. By using organizational hierarchical constraint analysis, the make-ready process is improved. This paper is followed by a case study in which organizational hierarchical constraint analysis has been applied, the results of which have been discussed with project participants. }, author_keywords={The Last Planner System, organizational hierarchical constraint analysis, make-ready process, informational transparency }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Knapp2006, author={Knapp, Steve and Charron, Roberto and Howell, Gregory }, editor={ }, title={Phase Planning Today}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={431-441}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/433}, affiliation={Project Coach, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main St. 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, Sknapp@leanproject.com, Phone 303-717-0952 ; Project Coach, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main St. 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, Rcharron@leanproject.com, Phone 786-287-2335 ; Principal, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main St. 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, Ghowell@leanproject.com, Phone 303-408-1098 }, abstract={Since the publication of White Paper #7 “Phase Scheduling” (Ballard 2000), work on many projects has been planned with this technique by teams of varying configuration. Many teams have adapted their own approach to developing a “phase schedule”, in some cases called a “reverse phase schedule” or a “pull phase schedule”. During these planning sessions, ideas have been put in practice that improve on the original scheme and increase the benefits of producing a phase schedule. Perhaps the most significant being the conversations that the teams pursue during the exercise. This paper will briefly describe the authors’ current approach to and practices for preparing phase schedules and how this has become, in actuality, phase planning. It will then describe how phase planning produces the project schedule as traditionally understood, and more importantly designs the network of commitments necessary to deliver each project milestone, and how understanding and using the network of commitments improves project performance. }, author_keywords={Phase Planning, scheduling }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ko2006, author={Ko, Chien-Ho }, editor={ }, title={Buffer Evaluation for Demand Variability Using Fuzzy Logic}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={255-264}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/434}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Department of Industrial Engineering and Technology Management, Da-Yeh University, 112 Shan-Jiau Rd., Da-Tsuen, Chang-Hua 515, Taiwan, e-mail: fpecount@yahoo.com.tw, phone: +886-4- 8511888, fax: +886-4-8511270; Research Director, Taiwan Lean Construction Institute; Executive Director, Lean Construction Institute Asia }, abstract={Precast fabricators face numerous challenges as they strive for business success. Among them, demand variability is arguably the biggest headache. The objective of the research is to develop a Buffer Evaluation Model (BEM) to protect fabricators against the impact of demand variability. Laws of forecasting are considered when developing the model. A pulling strategy of finishing production later relative to erection dates is established thereafter. To avoid fabricators losing capacity due to the relatively later fabrication, a time buffer is analyzed using Fuzzy Logic (FL). FL, in the BEM, is primarily used to deal with uncertain information encountered while evaluating time buffer. The study validates performance of the proposed method using a real precast project. Application results show that the proposed method can effectively reduce level of the inventory as well as reduce the risk of producing product falling victim to design changes. }, author_keywords={Fuzzy logic, precast fabrication, finished goods inventory, buffer management, demand variability }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Koskela2006, author={Koskela, Lauri and Kagioglou, Mike }, editor={ }, title={On the Metaphysics of Management}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/435}, affiliation={Professor, Salford Centre for Research and Innovation (SCRI) in the built and human environment, University of Salford, 4 th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, United Kingdom. Email: l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk ; Centre Manager, Salford Centre for Research and Innovation (SCRI) in the built and human environment, University of Salford, 4 th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, United Kingdom. Email: m.kagioglou@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={The question about the metaphysics of management is considered especially from the point of view of the subject, acts and object of management. Management is understood holistically, in connection to production, rather than as an independent domain in itself. In terms of metaphysics, the time-honoured question about the superiority of thing (substance, matter) ontology or process ontology is addressed. The determination of metaphysical commitments is discussed. Empirical evidence on the appropriateness of alternative metaphysical assumptions in management is forwarded. It is concluded that Western management thinking has been dominated by thing metaphysics. This has led to deficient conceptualizations and counterproductive methods, present in the 20 th century. There have been process metaphysics based correctives, which include Japanese-originated methods and out-of-the box methods developed by Western parties. These correctives have often outperformed their substance based counterparts, but their adoption in the West has been slow. It is concluded that the Western metaphysical assumptions, especially when implicit, hinder learning, understanding and implementation of the process based correctives in the realm of management. However, even if the dominant Western metaphysics constrains our thinking, it might be possible to break out of it, through appropriate ontology training. }, author_keywords={Metaphysics, management, production management, organization, change, process, substance }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Lim2006, author={Lim, Chul-woo and Yu, Jung-ho and Kim, Chang-duk }, editor={ }, title={Implementing PPC in Korea’s Construction Industry}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/436}, affiliation={Graduate student, Department of Architecture Engineering, Kwangwoon University, 447-1 Wolgye-Dong, Nowon-Ku, Seoul, Korea FAX +82-2-942-7101 (icw34@kw.ac.kr) ; Professor, Department of Architecture Engineering, Kwangwoon University, 447-1 Wolgye-Dong, Nowon-Ku, Seoul, Korea FAX +82-2-942-7101 (myazure@kw.ac.kr) ; Professor, Department of Architecture Engineering, Kwangwoon University, 447-1 Wolgye-Dong, Nowon-Ku, Seoul, Korea FAX +82-2-942-7101 (stpkim@kw.ac.kr) }, abstract={Developed by the Lean Construction Institute, the Last Planner ® System (LPS) consists of four steps: Master Schedule, Phase Schedule, Lookahead Planning, and Weekly Work Plan. This paper focuses on the process of measuring the Percentage of Plan Completed (PPC) at the Weekly Work Plan stage. PPC refers to the percentage of weekly assignments completed. The results of research on the use of PPC in many other countries confirm the benefits of using PPC. In Korea’s construction industry, however, the concept of PPC is still relatively new. This paper analyzes the cases of PPC application in other countries and compares it with the production control system in Korea’s construction industry. The results of this research are expected to serve as the basis for the institutionalization of the PPC implementation process in Korea. }, author_keywords={Last Planner System, Lookahead Plan, Weekly Work Plan, PPC, Time Management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Nakagawa2006, author={Nakagawa, Yoshitaka }, editor={ }, title={Real Time Performance Information System Using Mobile Phone}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={331-339}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/437}, affiliation={Dr. Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Engineering Division, Toyo University }, abstract={The author explained the importance of standard operating procedure documents and visualization in order to implement lean construction in IGCL12 and 13. PPC chart and Table of Reason for Failure are important tools in order to execute standard operation and visualization. But the information is often not in real time, not precise and not shared with the foreman, staff of site and head offices of both the contractor and subcontractors. In order to improve these shortcomings, author is developing real time performance information system using mobile telephone. This paper first explains if we have real time performance information of the work and reason of the performance, we can easily eliminate waste in order to pursue the perfection of construction work flow. The idea of this system came from POS system of convenience store._Then the author shows how the real time information of each merchandise item at a convenience store is used and how it is determined whether an item sold well or poorly. The real time performance information system on construction site using mobile phone now under development is explained. Finally, the author explains the examples and effects of eliminating waste using mobile phone system. }, author_keywords={Lean Construction, Real Time Performance Information System, Mobile Phone, PPC }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Narang2006, author={Narang, Puneet and Abdelhamid, Tariq S. }, editor={ }, title={Quantifying Workers’ Hazard Identification Ability Using Fuzzy Signal Detection Theory}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={497-509}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/438}, affiliation={Graduate Student Research Assistant, 9 Farrall Hall, Construction Management Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1323. Email: narangpu@msu.edu. ; Assistant Professor, 207 Farrall Hall, Construction Management Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1323. Email: tariq@msu.edu. }, abstract={Safeguarding construction workers from occupational hazards, whether arising from traumatic, ergonomic, and/or exposure accidents, is part and parcel of the lean construction ideal of waste elimination. Howell et al. (2002) proposed a new approach to understand construction accidents based on Rasmussen’s theory of cognitive systems engineering. One aspect of the model focused on worker training to recognize hazards (unsafe conditions). The primary goal of this paper is to develop a method to quantify workers’ ability to identify these hazards. Abdelhamid et al. (2003) explored the need for an assessment of the process of identification and applied Signal Detection Theory (SDT) to assess workers’ ability to detect unsafe conditions. This research applies Fuzzy SDT, proposed by Parasuraman et al. (2000), to increase the applicability of conventional SDT analysis to construction settings where the definition of a signal event and its associated response do not follow a binary or dichotomous structure. Application of the methodology is demonstrated using a pilot study involving structural steel workers. Results from the sample of 10 ironworkers indicated the average sensitivity in identifying hazards was above average and that workers generally adopted a conservative strategy. Data analysis using conventional SDT model showed a marginally increased sensitivity, but with a very high variation. This result illustrated that fuzzy SDT model was more reflective of the ability of construction workers to identify construction hazards. }, author_keywords={Occupational Safety, Construction Safety, Signal Detection Theory, Construction Accidents, Hazard Identification }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Owen2006, author={Owen, Robert and Koskela, Lauri and Henrich, Guilherme and Codinhoto, Ricardo }, editor={ }, title={Is Agile Project Management Applicable to Construction?}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={51-66}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/439}, affiliation={PhD ‘Candidate, Phone +44 161 295 4143, r.l.owen@pgr.salford.ac.uk ; Professor, Phone +44 161 295 7960, l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk ; PhD Candidate, Phone +44 161 295 4143, g.henrich@pgr.salford.ac.uk ; Research Assistant, Phone +44 161 295 4284, r.codinhoto@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={This paper briefly summarises the evolution of Agile Project Management (APM) and differentiates it from lean and agile production and ‘leagile’ construction. The significant benefits being realized through employment of APM within the information systems industry are stated. The characteristics of APM are explored, including: philosophy, organizational attitudes and practices, planning, execution and control and learning. Finally, APM is subjectively assessed as to its potential contribution to the pre-design, design and construction phases. In conclusion, it is assessed that APM offers considerable potential for application in pre- design and design but that there are significant hurdles to its adoption in the actual construction phase. Should these be overcome, APM offers benefits well beyond any individual project. }, author_keywords={Agile, Project Management, Construction }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Pasquire2006, author={Pasquire, Christine and Soar, Rupert and Gibb, Alistair }, editor={ }, title={Beyond Pre-Fabrication - the Potential of Next Generation Technologies to Make a Step Change in Construction Manufacturing}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={243-254}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/440}, affiliation={Senior Lecturer, Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Leics, LE11 3TU, UK Tel: ++44 (0)1509 222895 Fax ++44(0)1509 223981 c.l.pasquire@lboro.ac.uk ; Senior Lecturer, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, Leics LE11 3TU UK Tel: ++44 (0)1509 227636 Fax ++44(0)1509 227648 r.c.soar@lboro.ac.uk ; Professor, Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Leics, LE11 3TU, UK Tel: ++44 (0)1509 223097 Fax ++44(0)1509 223981 a.g.gibb@lboro.ac.uk }, abstract={This paper describes a number of next generation manufacturing technologies which may find applications in construction such as digital fabrication and rapid prototyping. It will also look at some of the work being undertaken within UK Government funded research projects within the overarching area of Freeform Construction. In addition to explaining the technical processes and products of these, the paper will explore the delivery management issues and theorise how these next generation technologies have the potential drive lean thinking deep into the heart of the construction industry. The technology and delivery issues will be presented in a conceptual model of construction manufacturing. The underlying premise for this research agenda is the static nature of construction – with the basic logic behind the processes being unchanged for centuries, construction is probably the last bastion standing against technological revolution. Next generation manufacturing technologies have the potential to drive the paradigm shift needed to achieve the changes the industry is being pushed towards. This paper provides a view of a different construction industry for the coming century and shows the processes that may help shape it along the way. }, author_keywords={Construction manufacturing; freeform construction, digital fabrication, rapid prototyping, automation }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Pavez2006, author={Pavez, Ignacio and Alarcón, Luis F. }, editor={ }, title={Qualifying People to Support Lean Construction in Contractor Organizations}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={513-524}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/441}, affiliation={Research Assistant, MSc student, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Engineering Faculty, Construction Management School, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3547050, ipavez@ing.puc.cl ; Professor of Civil Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Engineering Faculty, Construction Management School, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3544245, lalarcon@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={The consolidation of the lean construction theory demands the application of its concepts and principles in practical situations, but until now most of the implementations have been very fragmented. They have focused mainly on the improvement of project performance through the application of new tools and methodologies, leaving aside organizational and human issues. This paper proposes a way to support lean construction in contractor organizations, both creating a Lean Construction Professional Profile (LCPP) (seeking what competencies are needed) and expanding the focus centered on projects to address organizational and human issues that are necessary to carry out a sustainable and successful implementation. Several research activities were carried out: an assessment of what skills Project Managers (PMs) need, a study of how construction PMs use their time, and an analysis of the best practices coming from the outcomes of executive’s studies in management science, construction industry and lean construction. Extracting the main contributions and similarities of each approach, and taking the premise of the holistic development of people as a key element, five areas of competence and knowledge were identified: (1) enterprise vision, (2) lean vision, (3) technical capacity, (4) management capacity and (5) social competence. From the five competence-knowledge areas the LCPP was defined, considering first mental models that drive acting (enterprise vision and lean vision) and then sorting the competences needed in their complexity. }, author_keywords={Organization development, human resource development, project manager, lean construction, executive work }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Polat2006, author={Polat, Gul and Ballard, Glenn }, editor={ }, title={How to Promote Off-Site Fabrication Practice of Rebar in Turkey?}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={279-290}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/442}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Construction Management Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey, Tel: +90-212-285-3737; Fax: +90-212-285-6587; E-mail: gpolat@ins.itu.edu.tr ; Research Director, Lean Construction Institute, 4536 Fieldbrook Road, Oakland, CA 94619. 510/530-8656, gballard@leanconstruction.org; Associate Adjunct Professor, Project & Engineering Mgmt. Group, Dept. of Civil and Env. Eng., University of California at Berkeley; and Principal, Strategic Project Solutions. }, abstract={The authors have previously explored the practices of Turkish contractors in a series of papers, using rebar as the focal point. The exploratory studies have revealed a very complex socio- technical-economic system in play, the upshot of which is that performance is far from lean. This paper looks at the problem as representative of those faced by the construction industries in developing countries. First the system elements and dynamics are described, using force field analysis as the organizing tool. Then proposals are made for moving the industry toward lean construction practices, including optimal use of off site fabrication. }, author_keywords={rebar, off-site fabrication, barriers, improvement suggestions, Turkish construction industry }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Robert2006, author={Robert, Gabriel R. T. and Granja, Ariovaldo Denis }, editor={ }, title={Target and Kaizen Costing Implementation in Construction}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={91-105}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/443}, affiliation={Civil Eng., M. Sc. Candidate at GTE/Unicamp, gabriel.robert@terra.com.br Engineering Supervisor of a Brand Retail Unit in São Paulo, Brazil. ; Asst. Professor, Construction Management and Technology Research Group (GTE), School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and urban Design, Department of Architecture and Building, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Avenida Albert Einstein, 951, Caixa Postal 6021, Campinas/SP, CEP 13083-852, Brazil, Tel.: +55 19 3788-2082, FAX + 55 19 3788-2411, adgranja@fec.unicamp.br }, abstract={The challenge of implementing a combined target and kaizen costing approach has been recognized as a promising strategy for construction companies seeking to increase their profit margins, efficacy of production process and relationship with suppliers. Construction companies use to perform their services in a competitive market and can apply this combination to reduce construction costs, while at the same time assuring their profitable business margins. This research sought to implement a combined target and kaizen costing approach along the planning and construction phases of brand retail units (BRU). A context specific case study with four BRU has been devised. The main idea was firstly to design and to specify the units to reduce historical product development costs by means of product’s definition interventions. On the target costing application the “customers care service center” of the company has been consulted about possible product conception interventions that were not perceived as value by customers. Later, the kaizen costing approach sought continuous improvements on production processes mostly based on suggestions originated by the main sub-contractors. The case study results show cost reductions around 13% compared with previous cost data of the company for these facilities. }, author_keywords={Target costing, Kaizen costing, Cost reduction, Brand Retail Units }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Sacks2006, author={Sacks, Rafael and Harel, Michael }, editor={ }, title={How Last Planner Motivates Subcontractors to Improve Plan Reliability – a Game Theory Model}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={443-454}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/444}, affiliation={Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8293190, cvsacks@techunix.technion.ac.il ; PhD Candidate, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8292245, harelm@techunix.technion.ac.il }, abstract={There is an inherent relationship between subcontractors’ labour resource allocation behaviour and the level of plan reliability they perceive. Under fixed-price or lump sum contracts, projects with low plan reliability can only be profitable for subcontractors when buffers of ready work are large enough to shield their productivity. A normal form game theory analysis can show that subcontractors will naturally tend to behave defensively whenever they perceive that plans are unreliable, resulting in unreliable labour allocation, and thus reducing plan reliability further, resulting in a vicious circle. The Last Planner System works to improve plan reliability. However, in order to achieve continuous improvement of the system, a rigorous model is needed to improve understanding of the mechanisms by which it affects labour resource allocation behaviour. The extended form game theory model presented in this research explains the relationship between project managers and subcontractors, and indicates at what levels of trust behaviour changes from competitive to collaborative. Ideas for enhancing construction procurement and production system design to make plans more reliable are discussed against the background of this theoretical explanation. }, author_keywords={Subcontracting, game theory, Last Planner, plan reliability }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Saffaro2006, author={Saffaro, Fernanda A. and Trescastro, Marcel G. and Rodrigues, Alana A. and Schramm, Fábio K. and Formoso, Carlos T. and Heineck, Luiz F. }, editor={ }, title={Saffaro Trescastro Rodrigues Schramm Formoso heineck_prototyping Contprototyping Contributions for Production Management in Constructionributions for Production Management in construction.pdf}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={421-429}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/445}, affiliation={M.Sc, Assistant Professor at the Civil Engineering Department, State University of Londrina. Ph.D. Candidate at the Postgraduate Program in Civil Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil. saffaro@uel.br ; Architect, M.Sc., Building Innovation Research Unit - NORIE, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. 3castro@via-rs.net ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc. Candidate at the Building Innovation Research Unit - NORIE, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. alana.rodrigues@gmail.com ; M.Sc., Assistant Professor at the Federal University of Pelotas, Ph.D. Candidate at the Building Innovation Research Unit – NORIE, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, “Este link externo ir? abrir em nova janela” fabioks@ufpel.edu.br ; Associate Professor, Building Innovation Research Unit – NORIE, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, formoso@ufrgs.br ; Professor, Postgraduate Program in Production Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil, heineck@deps.ufsc.br }, abstract={The uncertain nature of construction requires the use of tools that generate useful information and support decision making in each phase of the product development process (PDP). Experimentation techniques have been adopted by other industrial sectors with the aim of supporting product development, especially due to the existing uncertainty and risk. However, those techniques have been poorly used in construction, especially in the study of production processes at building sites. This paper describes three studies that were carried out in construction companies with the aim of investigating the role of two experimentation techniques, FRS and on-line learning, and also the requirements for their implementation. The results suggest that these techniques can be used to understand work methods and to establish standard operation elements. The production constraints did not allow the standard work to be fully adopted and interrupted the continuity of the cycle observation–reflection– action that could create in-depth knowledge on work methods. The paper discusses the requirements for establishing an appropriate environment in order to increase the prototyping contributions for creating an in-depth knowledge on work-methods. }, author_keywords={Prototyping, first run study, standard-operation }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Saurin2006, author={Saurin, Tarcisio A. and Formoso, Carlos T. and Cambraia, Fabricio B. }, editor={ }, title={Towards a Common Language Between Lean Production and Safety Management}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={483-495}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/446}, affiliation={Ph.D., Associate Professor at LOPP/UFRGS (Product and Process Optimization Laboratory, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul). Praça Argentina nº 9, 2º andar. Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil. CEP 90040-020. Fax: 55-51- 3316-4007. E-mail: saurin@ufrgs.br ; Ph.D., Associate Professor at NORIE/UFRGS (Building Innovation Research Unit, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul). Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99, 3º andar. Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil. CEP 90040-020. Fax: 55-51-3316- 4054. E-mail: formoso@ufrgs.br ; Civil Engineer, MSc, PhD candidate at NORIE/UFRGS. Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99, 3º andar, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil. CEP 90040-020. E-mail: fabricio@cpgec.ufrgs.br }, abstract={This paper discusses lean production objectives and design principles that can be shared by production management and safety management. It focuses on strategies to deal with variability, emphasizing two typical lean production concepts – autonomation and visual management – which can be used in safety management to detect variability. Moreover, considering the cognitive systems engineering perspective on safety as a basis, this paper discusses four guidelines for developing and monitoring procedures in the lean production approach: (a) take into account workers´ mental and physical capabilities; (b) stress workers involvement in procedures development and monitoring; (c) investigate reasons for successful performance rather than just causes of non-compliance with procedures; and (d) adopt a broader view on the meaning of deviations from procedures, which should not necessarily be seen as negative. It is proposed that similar analysis to the one carried out in this paper be undertaken to other lean production elements (e.g. how lean practices such as kaizen, supply chain management and total productive maintenance may benefit safety?). An inverse analysis is also necessary, since some elements that are usually included in safety management systems can be integrated to lean production practices. }, author_keywords={Safety management, cognitive systems engineering, lean production, operations management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Schramm2006, author={Schramm, Fábio K. and Rodrigues, Alana A. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={ }, title={The Role of Production System Design in the Management of Complex Projects}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={227-239}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/447}, affiliation={M.Sc., Assistant Professor at Federal University of Pelotas – UFPel, Ph.D. Candidate at NORIE/UFRGS, fabioks@ufpel.edu.br ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc., Researcher at NORIE/UFRGS, alana@ppgec.ufrgs.br ; Ph.D., Associate Professor, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE), formoso@ufrgs.br, Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99 – 3º andar, CEP 90035-190, Porto Alegre – RS, Phone: +55 51 3316 3959 }, abstract={Production system design (PSD) is one of the core activities of production management. It translates the intended production strategy into a set of decisions. It establishes the structure that will manage different activities, and creates appropriate conditions for control and improvement. The design of production systems should begin at the early stages of product design, including not only on-site production itself but also on suppliers’ and consumers’ processes. In operational terms, a major concern is to devise the layout and the material and information flows in order to create favourable conditions for a more efficient production system. Despite its importance, very little attention is usually given to production system design in the construction industry. This paper discusses the implementation of production system design in complex construction projects, such as hospitals, industrial and commercial buildings. This discussion is based on the findings of two case studies, using a model for production system design devised for low cost repetitive house-building projects as a starting point. Differently from low cost house-building, in complex projects the client requirements are not usually well defined at the beginning of the project. This requires the production system design to be carried out in several stages. Another difference is the large number of subcontractors and suppliers involved and the high degree of interdependence between them. Some prototyping tools were used for reducing uncertainty, and to increase transparency. The main contribution of this paper is to propose the PSD as a way to cope with certain features of complex construction projects. It proposes the scope of decisions involved, and the requirements that are necessary to perform this task effectively in such projects. The results indicated that production system design can potentially improve the performance of production systems in such projects, and improve the understanding of the impacts of client requirements and design changes. }, author_keywords={Production system design, complex projects, production management }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Tommelein2006, author={Tommelein, Iris D. }, editor={ }, title={Process Benefits From Use of Standard Products – Simulation Experiments Using the Pipe Spool Model}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={177-188}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/448}, affiliation={Professor and Vice Chair of Instruction, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 (510) 643-8678, FAX +1 (510) 643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={Construction materials management and supply chain management are challenging not in the least because of the sheer number and variety of types of materials being assembled in any one project. Uniqueness of materials increases system complexity. This raises the question addressed in this paper: How may the use of increasing numbers of a standard product affect production system performance? To answer this question, we build on the pipe-spool model with ‘matching problems’ that was presented at the IGLC in 1997 but we study parameters that are different from those studied previously to illustrate how management practices may affect a production system’s behavior. Specifically, we show how the use of standard products alleviates the matching problem. Computer-based discrete-event simulation is known to be a useful tool to describe how lean systems may be designed and metrics applied to analyze their performance. Accordingly, we use simulation experiments to illustrate the relationship between the use of various numbers of standard products and process execution. As shown, small numbers of standard products result in some reduction of the project duration, but increasing numbers benefit the system disproportionately more. Using lessons learned from this experiment combined with other observations based on theory and practice, we provide directions for follow-on research and recommendations for managers to design their project-based production systems by exploiting product standardization opportunities. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, variability, product standardization, process modelling, materials management, supply chain management, discrete-event simulation, pipe, piping system, process plant, industrial construction, off-site fabrication }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Toolanen2006, author={Toolanen, Bengt and Olofsson, Thomas }, editor={ }, title={Relational Contracting and Process Design Promoting Cooperation}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={191-203}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/449}, affiliation={PhD candidate, Tech Lic., Div of Structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden Bengt.Toolanen@ltu.se ; Professor, Div of Structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden Thomas.Olofsson@ltu.se }, abstract={In Sweden as in many other countries new demands have led to the set-up of public committees and research projects for scrutinizing the construction sector. The main conclusions are that traditional models for managing the building process do not match the nature of today’s fast- track, uncertain and complex projects. Since 2004 there is also a government appointed Committee in Sweden dealing with these matters. It is interesting to notice that the Committee has already given prominence to Lean Construction ideas and concepts as a model for the future of the Swedish construction sector. New ideas and innovative concepts for the development of the construction process in huge projects which are extremely quick, uncertain and complex have been tested by the Swedish mining company LKAB at a pelletizing plant project described in this paper. The project is procured as a partnering project on DB (Design and Build) basis and with transparent remuneration form. The expectations and demands from the client concerning targets regarding time, cost and functions are set high. Advanced design models such as 3D, 4D and VR has been used to support a concurrent engineering design and construction process. This paper will mainly deal with the relational contracting aspects. Especially, how the contracting model affects the process design. The results of the study presented are based on a field survey case study carried through by the authors. }, author_keywords={Procurement models, project types, lean contracting, relational contracting, field survey, process design }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Villarouco2006, author={Villarouco, Vilma and Fittipaldi, Andréa }, editor={ }, title={A Better Plan for Construction Companies}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={567-574}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/450}, affiliation={Architect; Doctorate in Production Engineering; Professor at the Federal University of Pernambuco; Address: Av. Dezessete de Agosto, 2270 - Recife/PE - Brazil - CEP: 52.061-540; Phone 55 081 2126.8301; E-mail: villarouco@hotmail.com ; Engineer; Master's in Production Engineering; CREA-PE; Address: Av. Agamenom Magalhães -s/n ,: Recife/ PE - Brazil - Phone 55 081 91117791; E-mail: adfitti@terra.com.br }, abstract={A failure to adopt measures for improving production has been identified among a number of construction companies in Northeast Brazil, especially in comparison to the south and southeast regions of the country. Studies are being carried out with the aim of understanding the current development of building construction in the city of Recife and its metropolitan area in the state of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil; and identifying obstacles to the adoption of Lean Construction. The level of knowledge on the issue among companies has also been studied. Limited awareness regarding lean construction has been identified, together with a lack of studies on construction management in engineering courses. This paper shows the results of these research projects, which also investigated aspects of ISO 9000 certification among companies, as well as environmental management, production planning and control. Suggestions are made in an effort encourage the adoption of Lean Project Delivery among construction companies in the state of Pernambuco. The case studies developed here were part of larger research. }, author_keywords={Construction companies, Northeast Brazil, lean construction }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Wu2006, author={Wu, Jianfeng and Soibelman, Lucio }, editor={ }, title={Graphical Analysis on Non-Conformances of Construction Production Processes: Ongoing Research and Case Study}, journal={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={14th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2006}, pages={393-405}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/451}, affiliation={PhD Student and Research Assistant, Civil and Env. Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Phone +1 412/268-6126, jianfen1@andrew.cmu.edu ; Associate Professor, Civil and Env. Engineering., Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Phone +1 412/268-2952, FAX +1 412/268-7813, lucio@andrew.cmu.edu }, abstract={The Last Planner™ system of production control, based on lean construction principles, has been broadly and successfully implemented in several projects over the past years. Its focus on work plan realization is useful in helping project management teams identify main problems that constrain the timely completion of individual activities, and decrease possible variability. However, potential problems in designs of production processes, which also contribute to risks and variability during their implementations, have been seldom studied and could be only learned and used by human planners in a subjective and implicit manner. In this paper, a research approach is detailed to address this problem by creating a generic and concise data representation for networks of construction production processes in support of graphical analysis and pattern recognition. As a part of this ongoing research, a case study is presented with preliminary results, which were obtained by applying the research approach on a Last Planner™ database of production control from a large capital facility project. Networks of production processes were analyzed by comparing type descriptions of the original plans and their actual performance. Interesting and statistically valid patterns were recognized in this study, such as correlations between the topology of a work plan and its probability of having non-completions during implementation. Such objective and explicit patterns could help project managers better understand potential problems in original designs of construction processes, and make informed decisions to decrease corresponding variability and increase reliability in planning and control. }, author_keywords={Graphical analysis, production processes, pattern recognition, knowledge discovery }, address={Santiago, Chile }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, }