@CONFERENCE{Koskela2007, author={Koskela, Lauri and Rooke, John and Bertelsen, Sven and Henrich, Guilherme }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={The TFV Theory of Production: New Developments}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/452}, affiliation={Professor, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th 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 ; Research Fellow, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2956344, FAX +44 161 2954587, j.rooke@salford.ac.uk ; MSc, Consulting Engineer, External Lecturer, Danish Technical University, Roennebaervej 10, app 108, 2840 Holte, DK Denmark, Phone +45 4542 4705, sven@bertelsen.org ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. candidate, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th 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 }, abstract={This paper aims at reporting new developments in the understanding of the TFV (Transformation-Flow-Value generation) theory of production. This theory identifies three interdependent angles to production: transformation (achieved by resources workers, machines, etc.) oriented (T), materials oriented (F) and customer oriented (V). Fundamental ontological differences in the presuppositions of the three sub theories are pinpointed. In particular, the transformation theory subscribes to thing metaphysics, whilst the value generation theory is based on process metaphysics. It is suggested that for achieving an internal alignment among the sub theories, two different understandings should be distinguished: thing-metaphysics based (TFV)t and process metaphysics based (TFV)p. It is shown that the three different sub theories have often in practice been interpreted according to (TFV)t. However, the fundamental problems associated to this understanding are also pinpointed, and the limited range of application of (TFV)t is noted. In the consideration of (TFV)p, especially the transformation theory has to be reinterpreted as a processual conceptualization. It is suggested, following a hint from Shingo, that transformations equate to work. It is suggested that the traditional command and control (or management-as-planning) mode is in coherence with the (TFV)t theory. Unfortunately, this mode of control amplifies the conceptual shortcomings of the (TFV)t, and it has been found to be inefficient in practice. Instead, for (TFV)p, more holistic modes of control are needed. An initial exploration of control coherent with the (TFV)p conceptualization is made. }, author_keywords={Transformation, flow, value generation, production, metaphysics. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bertelsen2007, author={Bertelsen, Sven and Henrich, Guilherme and Koskela, Lauri and Rooke, John }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Construction Physics}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={13-26}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/453}, affiliation={MSc, Consulting Engineer, External Lecturer, Danish Technical University, Roennebaervej 10, app 108, 2840 Holte, DK Denmark, Phone +45 4542 4705, sven@bertelsen.org ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. candidate, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th 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 ; Professor, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th 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 ; Research Fellow, School of the Built Environment – University of Salford, 4th 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={At the 14th annual conference in the International Group for Lean Construction in 2006 the authors presented the concept of construction as a process being fed by a number of flows out of which one is the critical one deciding the speed with which the process takes place. This contribution takes the idea further and sets out by discussing production in general and the underlying mental flow models associated with this understanding. It then suggests a new model for the understanding of the nature of project production with a focus on all the flows feeding this complex process. It continues by discussing the nature of the flows and at the same time looks at the impact of their variability at the project level. And finally it looks at the present tools for project management and their suitability in a process understanding of the project where particularly the nature of Last Planner is discussed. }, author_keywords={Construction physics, flow, project management, mental models }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Rooke2007, author={Rooke, John and Koskela, Lauri and Bertelsen, Sven and Henrich, Guilherme }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Centred Flows: A Lean Approach to Decision Making and Organisation}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={27-36}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/454}, affiliation={Research Fellow, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4th Floor, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2956344, FAX +44 161 2954587, j.rooke@salford.ac.uk ; Professor, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4th 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 ; MSc, Consulting Engineer, External Lecturer, Danish Technical University, Roennebaervej 10, app 108, 2840 Holte, DK Denmark, Phone +45 4542 4705, sven@bertelsen.org ; Civil Engineer, M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. candidate, School of Construction and Property Management – University of Salford, 4th 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 }, abstract={Koskela has argued that the flow conception of production is a key to understanding and generating improvement innovations. However, it has tended to be assumed that this view is appropriate for the analysis of processes, rather than of operations. However, it is notable that Shingo also conceives of operations in terms of flows. The flow conception treats the process holistically, as a continuum, time is central to understanding them. Events, rather than objects, are key units. It is argued here that the key distinction between a process flow and an operational flow is that processes are essentially passive, acted upon by operations. Conversely, operations, whether human or mechanical, have the quality of intentionality. It is suggested that the idea of 'competence', borrowed from ethno methodology is a prime analytic device for understanding operational flows. Human activities have the quality that they can be understood as practical competencies or abilities that we can acquire for ourselves. It is suggested that we can extend production theory to examine the production of organisation, as distinct from its usual focus on the organisation of production. The organisations which design, construct and manage the built environment may be viewed as social processes which are produced in the exercise of the operational competences of their memberships. }, author_keywords={Lean Theory, Flows, Operations, Organisation, Competence }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Codinhoto2007, author={Codinhoto, Ricardo and Koskela, Lauri and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia and Kagioglou, Mike }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={The Method of Analysis in Production Management}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={37-45}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/455}, affiliation={Research Fellow, SCRI / HaCIRIC, School of the Built Environment, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, UK, Phone: +44 (0)161 2953507, e-mail: r.codinhoto@salford.ac.uk ; Professor, School of the Built Environment, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, UK, Phone: +44 (0)161 2956378, e-mail: l.j.koskela@salford.ac.uk ; Academic Fellow, School of the Built Environment, University of Salford; Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, UK, Phone +44 161 2954284; p.tzortzopoulos@salford.ac.uk ; Professor, School of the Built Environment, University of Salford, Maxwell Building, The Crescent, Salford, M5 4WT, UK, tel. +44 (0)161 2953855, e-mail: m.kagioglou@salford.ac.uk }, abstract={The method of analysis was developed by ancient Greek geometers to identify and solve problems related to geometry. From that period, well known scientists such as Newton and Descartes have applied the method. More recently, Polya has presented the method of analysis as a heuristic template to solve mathematical and other problems. Despite its continual epistemological dilution, the method has also been used to explain the cognitive process of designing. In this paper it is claimed that the method of analysis can also explain production management. It seems that the method of analysis has been used across different levels of management in production, i.e. from a holistic/strategic perspective through to detailed levels. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to discuss whether the method of analysis provides a partial theoretical foundation for production planning. The research approach is literature review with an emphasis on the method of analysis and synthesis. The conclusion is that the method of analysis and synthesis adds to the theoretical explanation of both design and production. }, author_keywords={Analysis and synthesis, production planning }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bertelsen2007, author={Bertelsen, Sven and Sacks, Rafael }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Towards a New Understanding of the Construction Industry and the Nature of Its Production}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={46-56}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/456}, affiliation={MSc, Consulting Engineer, External Lecturer, Danish Technical University, Roennebaervej 10, app 108, 2840 Holte, DK Denmark, Phone +45 4542 4705, sven@bertelsen.org ; 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={Looking around, there is no doubt that the poor performance of today’s construction industry is a global phenomenon. This leads to reflections on the nature of the industry itself and its project performance compared to the situation before World War II. Have the projects and or the industry changed for the worse? And if so, why? And how can it be changed back again – if getting back is desirable? This paper looks at the industry and the projects from flow and complexity points of view and observes that the whole industry forms one very complex and dynamic network, whose nature and behaviour is poorly understood. It applies two basic rules to the complex network: the economic driver of service industries that demands optimization of resource utilisation, and the fundamental rule of queuing theory that relates waiting time and/or buffers to capacity utilisation rates. Taken together, these rules begin to provide an understanding of this network and its behaviour that offers a reasonable explanation for the industry’s performance. }, author_keywords={Complex networks; Construction management; Flow; Stalemate; Subcontractors; Variability. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Chen2007, author={Chen, Qian and Reichard, Georg and Beliveau, Yvan }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Interface Management - A Facilitator of Lean Construction and Agile Project Management}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={57-66}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/457}, affiliation={Ph.D. Candidate, Dept. of Building Construction, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, Phone +1 540/239-1479, FAX 540/231-7339, qchen@vt.edu ; Assistant Professor, Dept. of Building Construction, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, Phone +1 540/818-4603, reichard@vt.edu ; G.A. Snyder Falkinham Professor and Head, Dept. of Building Construction, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, Phone +1 540/818-4602, yvan@vt.edu }, abstract={This paper aims to establish and clarify the close relationships between Interface Management (IM) and the two emerging construction management philosophies: lean construction and agile project management (APM). The applications of these two approaches face great challenges from a project’s complexity. IM, managing and controlling interrelationships or interactions among elements of complex project systems, can help augment these two strategic approaches and facilitate the implementation of related techniques and methods in the dynamic built environment. This paper first briefly introduces the new concept of IM and its benefits to construction management. Then, it reviews lean construction and APM respectively. During the review, this paper simultaneously investigates the benefits that IM can offer to these two approaches in regard to philosophy and technique. In conclusion, it is assessed that IM can greatly improve the implementation of lean production and APM in construction and help optimize overall performance of construction project systems. }, author_keywords={Interface management, lean production, lean construction, agile, agile project management, multi-disciplinary team, complexity. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Forsberg2007, author={Forsberg, Azam and Saukkoriipi, Lasse }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Measurement of Waste and Productivity in Relation to Lean Thinking}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={67-76}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/458}, affiliation={PhD student, Department of Architecture and Infrastructure, Luleå University of Technology, SE- 971 87 Luleå, Sweden, +46 (0) 70-794 76 23, azam.forsberg@ltu.se ; Tech. lic, Building Economics and Management, Chalmers University of Technology, Sven Hultins gata 8, SE-412 96 Göteborg, Sweden, +46 (0)31-7721964, lasse.saukkoriipi@chalmers.se }, abstract={In the Swedish construction sector there have been debates concerning what can be done about the current low productivity and the high levels of wastes. During the last few years it has become more common to utilize principles from lean construction as a way to enhance the problems concerning the levels of productivity and waste. The aim of this paper is to do a literature review on measurement of waste and productivity. Terms waste and productivity will be compared and discussed in relation to lean construction. Furthermore this paper will highlight the use of lean philosophy to reduce waste and improve productivity in the Swedish construction industries. The study shows that the term ‘waste’ is more closely related to lean thinking than productivity is, but both terms are according to our analysis nonetheless important when striving for cost reductions. Furthermore there is a need of changing in the way of thinking in order to create a value added activities that can cut down production cost in the Swedish construction industries. }, author_keywords={Waste, productivity, lean construction, Swedish construction industry and performance measurements. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Neto2007, author={Neto, Jose de Paula Barros and Alves, Thais da C.L. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Strategic Issues in Lean Construction Implementation}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={78-87}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/459}, affiliation={Professor, Structural Engineering and Construction Department, Federal University of Ceará, Campus do Pici, s/n, Bloco 710, Pici, CEP: 60455-760, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, jpbarros@ufc.br ; Assistant Professor, Structural Engineering and Construction Department, Federal University of Ceará, Campus do Pici, s/n, Bloco 710, Pici, CEP: 60455-760, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, thaiscla@yahoo.com }, abstract={The paper discusses topics on production strategy and the need for proper definition of strategic goals before the implementation of Lean Production/Construction in construction companies. This research was motivated by two main reasons. The first reason is that few papers in the construction management literature tackle the relationship between strategic issues and Lean, even at IGLC conferences. The second is that construction companies seem to have implemented Lean in operational levels starting from tools and principles with low level of complexity without actually linking these to the companies’ strategic goals. Without proper strategic orientation Lean implementation may fail like other initiatives to improve companies’ performance. The research method used in this investigation comprised three phases: literature review, field research, and interviews with specialists and managers in construction companies. The authors carried out a research on a group of construction companies that have been implementing Lean in their construction sites and looked for evidences that link operational action to strategic planning. The paper concludes with the results of the cross analysis between the cases and the interviews as well as recommendations to assure proper engagement between Lean and strategic issues in construction companies. }, author_keywords={Strategy, production strategy, lean construction implementation. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ballard2007, author={Ballard, Glenn and Kim, Yong-Woo }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Implementing Lean on Capital Projects}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={88-97}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/460}, affiliation={Associate Adjunct Professor, University of California, Berkeley. ballard@ce.berkeley.edu ; Assistant Professor, Construction Management and Engineering Program, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Dr, Syracuse, NY 13135. }, abstract={This paper reports the findings of a research project commissioned by the Construction Industry Institute (U.S.A.) to discover the secrets of successful implementation of lean principles and methods on capital projects. Findings were drawn primarily from a review of the literature and from case studies. The best prospects for successful implementation were found in those projects driven by organizations committed to being lean enterprises; i.e., pursuing the lean ideal in accordance with lean principles, and using the best available tools and methods. As regards project implementation, findings and the corresponding recommendations are provided for contractual and organizational structures, project definition, design, supply, assembly and post project learning. }, author_keywords={Implementation, lean, lean enterprise, lean project delivery }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Gonzalez2007, author={Gonzalez, Vecente and Alarcon, Luis F. and Mundaca, Fenando }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Investigating the Relationship Between Planning Reliability and Project Performance}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={98-108}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/461}, affiliation={M. Eng., Ph. D. Candidate, Escuela de Ingeniería, Pontificia 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, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile. E-Mail: lalarcon@ing.puc.cl ; Field Engineer, Integrated Project Management, Schlumberger. E-Mail: mundaca@slb.com }, abstract={Variability is an endemic problem in construction projects, which leads to the general deterioration of their performance. During the last decade the Last Planner System (LPS™) has been increasingly applied in construction projects to improve planning reliability as a strategy to increase the project performance. LPS™ promotes a series of actions and methods to increase planning reliability, monitoring the Percentage of Plan Completed (PPC) in a short term planning period. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence studying properly the relationship between planning reliability and project performance. In this paper, the authors developed a detailed research in a home building project analyzing this relationship at activity and project level, in order to understand how changes of planning reliability levels impact over project performance during construction phase. For doing so, two indexes are proposed: A planning reliability index activity-based called Process Reliability Index (PRI), and an aggregated labour productivity index project-based called Project Productivity Index (PPI). At activity level, activity performance indicators are compared with PRI. At project level, PPI is compared with PPC as a project planning reliability index. Statistical analyses for both levels were conducted showing positive and robust trends to improve performance when planning reliability is increased. }, author_keywords={Last Planner, Variability, Project Performance, Planning Reliability. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Yu2007, author={Yu, Haitao and Tweed, Tarry and Al-Hussein, Mohamed and Nasseri, Reza }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Managing Variability In-House Production}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={109-118}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/462}, affiliation={Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2W2, Canada, Phone +1 780/492-9131, FAX 780/492-0249, hyu@ualberta.ca ; General Manager, Landmark Master Builder Inc., 9765-54 Ave. Edmonton, Alberta, T6E 5J4, Canada, Phone +1 780/702-8273, FAX 780/436-4773, tarryt@landmarkmasterbuilder.com ; Assistant professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2W2, Canada Phone +1 780/492-0599, FAX 780/492-0249, malhussein@ualberta.ca ; President, Landmark Master Builder Inc., 9765-54 Ave. Edmonton, Alberta, T6E 5J4, Canada, Phone +1 780/702-8273, FAX 780/436-4773, rezan@landmarkmasterbuilder.com }, abstract={The differences between construction and manufacturing are well known. There have been many arguments on whether lean production model is relevant to construction and what strategy should be taken for construction enterprises to pursue lean transformation. A central issue here is how to deal with high variability in construction process. This paper presents a collaborating research performed by the University of Alberta and a local homebuilder. An analysis of historical production data confirms that the current house production flow is extremely variable, particularly at the beginning of the production process. The ripple effects of a change in production conditions can cause serious problems in scheduling and lead to big variation in construction operation durations. Based on a comparative study of home building and auto manufacturing, a comprehensive approach is proposed to reduce and manage the variability in house production through the resolution of particularities. }, author_keywords={House production, Construction particularities, Variability, Residential construction, Strategy. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ansell2007, author={Ansell, Mary and Holmes, Mike and Evans, Rees and Pasquire, Christine and Price, Andrew }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Lean Construction Trial on a Highways Maintenance Project}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={119-128}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/463}, affiliation={Research Engineer, AmeyMouchel, Telford, UK. Phone +44 1952 655558, mary.ansell@ameymouchel.com ; Construction Team Leader, AmeyMouchel, Telford, UK. Phone +44 1952 655508, mike.holmes@ameymouchel.com ; Delivery Manager, AmeyMouchel, Telford, UK. Phone +44 121 2541306, rees.evans@ameymouchel.com ; Senior Lecturer, Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, UK. Phone +44 1509 222895, c.l.pasquire@lboro.ac.uk ; Professor, Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, UK. Phone +44 1509 222627, a.d.f.price@lboro.ac.uk }, abstract={In 2005, lean thinking was trialled to improve processes in the construction phase of a highways maintenance project. The trial was undertaken by a partnering framework; those involved were already working in a collaborative environment, and it was thought this would be conducive to introducing lean thinking. The scheme involved resurfacing and deep patching of two four lane carriageways and the provision of concrete protection to eight bridge piers. During the construction phase, a buffered programme, four-week look-ahead programmes and weekly programme plans were used to: undertake constraints analysis; measure planned activities completed each week; and analyse root causes of delay. On completion, the Project Team were interviewed on the successes and failures of using lean thinking on the project. Both problems and benefits were encountered in applying lean to the project. There were some issues with the way that lean was presented and certain improvements to the process were identified so that lean could be continued on other schemes undertaken within the framework, including: ensuring a better understanding of lean thinking and its application in a highways context; adopting some of the analyses as a formal process and measurement tool; and investigating principles of lean thinking outside programme management. }, author_keywords={Highways maintenance, implementation, lean processes, partnering framework }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Kim2007, author={Kim, Yong-Woo and Park, Changjung and Ballard, Glenn }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={A Case Study on Rebar Supply Chain Management by GS E&C}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={129-134}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/464}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, Advisory Committee, GS E&C, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6839, FAX 315/470-6879, ywkim@esf.edu ; Manager, Lean Construction Task Force Team (TPMS Team), GS Engineering and Construction, Seoul, Korea, parkcj@gsconst.co.kr ; Research Director, Project Production Systems Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley. ballard@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={In the past it has been difficult to implement lean supply chain management in construction because one entity does not have control over an entire supply chain. This research investigates supply chain practices at GS Engineering & Construction in Korea. The purpose of this case study is to explore the lean application on rebar supply chain management practice at GS. The paper discusses vertical integration in the supply system to reduce lead time and to improve a supplier’s reliability. It also discusses production control system and task standardization for a contractor’s planning reliability. }, author_keywords={Supply chain management, rebar supply chain, lean construction, case study, vertical integration, task standardization }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Kim2007, author={Kim, Yong-Woo and Jang, Jin Woo and Ballard, Glenn }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={A Subcontractor's Lean Journey: A Case Study on Ilyang}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={135-140}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/465}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6839, FAX 315/470-6879, ywkim@esf.edu ; Ph.D. Candidate, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, jijang@syr.edu ; Research Director, Project Production Systems Labouratory, University of California, Berkeley. ballard@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={In most cases, owners of companies or general contractors initiate Lean implementation on construction projects. The value in this case study is that it presents a subcontractor successfully implementing Lean construction on its projects. The case study investigated its motivation for making a Lean transformation, the course of its Lean transformation, and the lessons learned through its Lean journey. The study used interviews with twentyfive key personnel, twelve site visits, and an analysis of twelve documents on twelve projects. Further, it shows that while subcontractors have difficulty initiating Lean implementation beyond their own firms due to their lack of influence, it is possible for them to affect this kind of change. }, author_keywords={Case study, Lean journey, subcontractor }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Moon2007, author={Moon, Hyo-Gi and Yu, Jung-Ho and Kim, Chang-Duk }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Performance Indicators Based on TFV Theory}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={141-146}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/466}, affiliation={ }, abstract={In order to obtain good project performance, the performance of construction work processes should be improved. Traditionally, good project performance means a project is on budget and on time with expected quality. Thus, most project managers have used project performance indicators concerning time, cost, quality, safety, profitability, etc. However, these performance indicators are result-oriented and they cannot measure the performance of construction work processes, which we call as process-oriented performance. As process-oriented performance indicators for construction works, this paper suggests the use of three concepts: reliability, efficiency and effectiveness. These are derived from the TFV theory. The following three statements are the basis for establishing indicators related to those three TFV concepts: a “Transformation should be efficient”, “flow should be reliable”, and “value of a work relies on the effective completion of the preceding work”. This paper proposes three TFV based indicators, establishes a logical relation model between the indicators and other traditional indicators, and tests the validity of those indicators. Finally, this paper suggests how to use these indicators to build a process-oriented performance measurement system for construction projects }, author_keywords={Performance measurement, TFV, reliability, effectiveness, efficiency }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Imtiaz2007, author={Imtiaz, Ghaffar and Ibrahim, Abdul Razak }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Lean Production System to Enhance Performance in Operations: An Empirical Study of Malaysian Construction Industry}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={147-156}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/467}, affiliation={Senior Management Consultant/ Project Manager SMEC Malaysia and PhD Student, Faculty of Business and Accountancy, University Malaya, Malaysia, Phone: 603-79542799, agipak@yahoo.com ; Associate Professor and Director Graduate School of Business, Faculty of Business and Accountancy, University Malaya, Level 4, Block C, City Campus, Jalan Tun Ismail, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Phone: 603-26173008, razak@um.edu.my }, abstract={The construction industry consumes large amount of natural resources. These resources, if not properly utilized, will lead to a generation of waste. These wastes do not add value and affect the construction industry’s performance globally. The aim of this research is to improve operational performance of Malaysian construction industry by the application of Lean Production System (LPS) that has a significant impetus in reduction of waste. The assessment of construction practices against Lean Production System principles was carried out through structured questionnaires to the G7 construction organizations, that is, organizations which have no limit to tender for construction jobs. These organizations are registered with the Construction Industries Development Board (CIDB), Ministry of Works Malaysia. The data revealed that the G7 construction organizations have integrated some form of LPS principles in day-to-day operations at the macro level; however knowledge of LPS is not fully conceptualized. The application of LPS principles has improved operational performance because findings revealed that there is a correlation between Lean Production System (LPS) and operational performance (OP). }, author_keywords={Malaysian construction industry, lean production system (LPS), operational performance, lean construction (LC). }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Sterzi2007, author={Sterzi, Marcus P. and Isatto, Eduardo L. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Integrating Strategic Project Supply Chain Members in Production Planning and Control}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={159-169}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/468}, affiliation={M.Sc, Civil engineer at BSF Engenharia. Rua Portugal, 776, CEP 90520310. Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil. Phone number: +55 51 3342 7622,e-mail: mpsterzi@terra.com.br ; Ph.D., Associate Professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE), Osvaldo Aranha Ave., 99, 3º floor, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil, phone number: +55 51 3316 3959, (NORIE), e-mail: isatto@cpgec.ufrgs.br ; Ph.D., Associate Professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (NORIE), e-mail: formoso@ufrgs.br }, abstract={Much of the waste in the construction industry is related to ineffective planning, including design delays, flaws in the planning system and ineffective integration of suppliers in the planning system. Although SCM literature suggested some opportunities regarding the integration between construction supply chain (SC) firms and pointed out the difficulty of identifying critical SC members, so far no previous research has proposed mechanisms for identifying and integrating strategic project supply chain members. This research study proposes a set of guidelines for integrating supply management functions through the production planning and control system as well as using it for understanding the main problems related to the lack of integration. Multiple case studies were carried out in a main contractor from the South of Brazil. In those case studies a set of criteria was defined for choosing strategic suppliers and some improvements in the production planning and control were implemented. Among the main conclusions of the study, this research work proposes a strategy to identify the SC members that have to be integrated into a typical construction project and manage them across the Last Planner System®. }, author_keywords={Lean supply chain, Supply chain management, Integration, Last Planner System }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Vaidyanathan2007, author={Vaidyanathan, Kalyan and Howell, Gregory }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Construction Supply Chain Maturity Model - Conceptual Framework}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={170-180}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/469}, affiliation={Senior Product Line Manager, i2 Technologies. 4 Cambridge Center, 4th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142, Phone +1 617/551-2780, FAX 617/761-2674, kalyan@i2.com ; Managing Director, Lean Construction Institute. 625 Main St 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, Phone +1 303/408-1098, GHowell@leanconstruction.org }, abstract={Construction supply chain management has been researched and discussed in various academic and industry segments for a few years now. Members of FIATECH are discussing and defining the processes, standards, and schemas around construction supply chain management. There is a growing realization among the members of the AEC community of the need to remove inefficiencies in the construction supply chain and improve operational excellence, but the steps to achieve them is not clear. In this paper, the authors will present a conceptual framework of construction supply chain maturity model (CSCMM) to address the above issues, drawing on similar research done in manufacturing supply chains and software processes. The objective of the framework will be to provide a roadmap for members to realizing operational excellence so that collectively the construction project can realize the benefits of improved performance. This paper will explore the maturity model and its benefits to performance of both firm level and construction project level performance. }, author_keywords={Maturity model, Construction supply chain management. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Hamzeh2007, author={Hamzeh, Farook R. and Tommelein, Iris D. and Ballard, Glenn and Kaminsky, Philip M. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Logistics Centers to Support Project-Based Production in the Construction Industry}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={181-191}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/470}, affiliation={Ph.D. Student, Civil and Envir. Engrg. Department, 215 McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, USA, farook@berkeley.edu ; Professor, Civil and Envir. Engrg. Department, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, USA, 510/643-8678, FAX: 510/643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu ; Adj. Associate Professor, Civil and Envir. Engrg. Department, 215 McLaughlin Hall, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, ballard@ce.berkeley.edu ; Associate Professor, Industrial Engineering and Operations Research, 4179 Etcheverry, Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1777, 510/642-4927, FAX 510/642-1403, kaminsky@ieor.berkeley.edu }, abstract={ABSTRACT: With the advancement of information technology and increased market competition, construction companies are driven to employ supply chain management strategies to seek competitive advantage. Managing logistics is one component at the core of such strategies. An effective logistics system ensures delivery of the right products and services to the right customers at the right time while minimizing costs and rewarding all participants based on value added to the supply chain. As a component of a logistics system, logistics centres can serve the construction industry by offering services such as: storage, transport, distribution, assembly, kitting, consolidation, sorting, breaking bulk, cross-docking, and e-commerce. This paper focuses on the role logistics centres may play and the impact they may have on construction supply chains. Construction companies may configure their logistics centres in different ways to match their global and local supply chain strategy, while addressing challenges posed by variation in demand and supply for material, equipment, and services. A hypothesis is that logistics centres are underused in this industry, yet may offer considerable advantage. The ultimate aim of the research that is reported on here is developing a logistics system to support project-based production needs. The authors present a simulation model of a logistic centre that supports multiple site stores on different construction projects facing variations in supply lead times. The objective of the simulation is to find an approach to reduce material management costs while avoiding resource shortages, and enhancing both reliability and responsiveness of the supply chain. }, author_keywords={Logistics centre, supply chain management, logistics, lean construction, simulation. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Pinho2007, author={Pinho, Tiago and Telhada, Jose and Carvalho, Maria S. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Definition of a Supply Chain Management Model in Construction - Case Study}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={192-197}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/471}, affiliation={PhD Student, Systems and Production Department, School of Engineering - Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal, tiago.pinho@dps.uminho.pt ; Professor, Systems and Production Department, School of Engineering - Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal, telhada@dps.uminho.pt ; Professor, Systems and Production Department, School of Engineering - Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal, sameiro@dps.uminho.pt }, abstract={The purpose of this paper is to describe the implementation of a construction Supply Chain Management (SCM) tool that is being developed in a PhD graduation project. The project is entitled “Definition of a Logistics Network Model in the Construction Industry: Case Study” and is being carried out in dst – domingos da silva teixeira, s.a., with the main office in Braga - Portugal. The project under development aims to elaborate a detailed analysis of the logistic system of a construction company, which includes the processes of re-engineering for the logistic activities by developing appropriate methodologies, procedures and tools aiming the compression of time, eliminating waste and improving the global performance of the logistics network. All the information is being integrated into an Information and Communication System (ICS). In order to improve the information flow, a software based on a single database that permits accessibly outside the company through a web portal is being developed. The main aspects of the current work will be discussed in this paper, along with some preliminary results. }, author_keywords={Supply Chain Management, Information System, Logistics Case Study, Construction Company. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Mossman2007, author={Mossman, Alan }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Lean Logistics: Helping to Create Value by Bringing People, Information, Plant, Equipment and Materials Together at the Workface}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={198-211}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/472}, affiliation={BArch MBSc 19 Whitehall, Stroud GL5 1HA, UK 01453 765611, Email: alan.mossman@btconnect.com }, abstract={In the early days of IGLC, logistics was covered in the Supply chain and logistics management championship. Recently logistics per se has disappeared from the list of championships. It was clear from comments at the 2007 mid-year meeting that those present felt it had been correctly subsumed in the current Supply Chain Management theme. Work with constructors suggests that the logistics function is just as important as managing the assembly processes at the workface and needs focused attention. Taking Baudin (2004) as a starting point, lean construction logistics is defined as “all the operations needed to deliver a structure or building, except for the making/assembly of the structure or building”. An examination of IGLC papers mentioning logistics against this definition suggests that up to now construction logistics is too narrowly cast. A case is made for a separate championship of Construction Logistics within IGLC and a distinct discipline of Construction Logistics within Construction Management education. This study draws on a variety of experiences of construction logistics in the UK, makes links to nD design, Last Planner and other lean tools and examines the contribution that Construction Logistics can make to optimizing the end-to-end construction process while minimizing waste and energy use. It concludes that the Last Planner System is first and foremost a Logistics Planning System. }, author_keywords={Lean Construction, Lean Logistics, Construction Logistics, Logistics Planning. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ahn2007, author={Ahn, Changbum and Park, Moonsea and Lee, Hyun-Soo and Roh, Seungjun }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Project-Based Knowledge Management System for Lean Construction}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={549-558}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/473}, affiliation={M.Sc. student, Dept. of Architecture, Seoul National Univ., Seoul, 151-742, Korea. Phone +82 2 880 8311, FAX 82 2 887-8923, acb1229@snu.ac.kr ; Associate professor, Dept. of Architecture, Seoul National Univ., Seoul, 151-742, Korea. Phone +82 2 880 5848, FAX 82 2 887-8923, mspark@snu.ac.kr ; Professor, Dept. of Architecture, Seoul National Univ., Seoul, 151-742, Korea. Phone +82 2 880 7056, FAX 82 2 887-8923, hyunslee@snu.ac.kr ; Researcher, Dept. of Architecture, Seoul National Univ., Seoul, 151-742, Korea. Phone +82 2 880 8311, FAX 82 2 887-8923, rohsj97@snu.ac.kr }, abstract={Construction inefficiency most frequently occurs in the construction knowledge area. Knowledge management (KM), then, through sharing best practices and learning from past projects, can be an effective means of implementing lean construction. However, many KM initiatives have failed to meet this expectation, due to the top-down, controlled approach and an ineffective transferring mechanism. To address this challenging issue, this paper proposes a project-based KM system that helps to acquire and transfer knowledge, using blogs on a project basis instead of knowledge maps. Project blogs store various types of project information and knowledge including communications among project participants, and interconnecting personal blogs of project participants with project blogs would improve collaboration between project participants. Moreover, the proposed KM system could realize “information pulling” of lean construction by delivering prerequisite knowledge of an activity at the time that project participants are ready for that activity. Stored knowledge, with the contextual information extracted from the schedule database, is automatically “pulled” to project participants. By extending the concept of this project-based approach, this paper also suggests a web portal providing ASP service. This portal would serve as a database for lean construction best practices and thereby strengthen industry-wide sharing of live knowledge. }, author_keywords={Knowledge Management, Lean Construction, Information Pulling, Project Blog }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Bae2007, author={Bae, Jin-Woo and Kim, Yong-Woo }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Sustainable Value on Construction Project and Application of Lean Construction Methods}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={312-321}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/475}, affiliation={Ph.D. Student, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State Univ. of New Work, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, Phone +1 315/470- 6831, FAX 315/470-6879, jbae01@syr.edu ; Assistant Professor, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State Univ. of New Work, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, Phone +1 315/470-6839, FAX 315/470-6879, ywkim@esf.edu }, abstract={Lean Production is a systemic approach to meeting customer expectations, whatever they value, by reducing waste. At first glance, Lean then could only contribute to sustainability, but in fact sustainability is achieved only if the customer values sustainability. One intention of this paper’s authors is to examine whether sustainability is feasible as an added value. Another intention is to examine how current Lean construction tools and methods impact the construction and operation of sustainable facilities. The last is to suggest how these Lean construction tools and methods have evolved to contribute to green construction. The authors reviewed the publications which study both Lean Principles and Practices, and the impacts on the economic, social and environmental sustainability. The paper also investigated the relationships between Lean construction methods and its impacts, which were identified with suggestions for future research. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, sustainable construction, sustainable assessment, Sustainability }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Brodetskaia2007, author={Brodetskaia, Irina and Sacks, Rafael }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Understanding Flow and Micro-Variability in Construction: Theory and Practice}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={488-497}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/478}, affiliation={PhD Candidate, Faculty of Civil and Env. Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel Phone +972-4-8292875, cvirina@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={Uncertainty within supply chains, design changes, and lack of predictability of the production capacity of subcontracting trades, are only a few of the factors that make construction projects unpredictable. For residential finishing works, this is true even at the daily level; however most available production control methods, such as Last Planner, do not operate at this resolution. As a result, a production system is needed in which intelligent decisions about effective utilisation of available resources can be made daily or even hourly. A theoretical understanding is needed of the flow of operations on the micro-level of project management – at the level of daily resource utilisation – in order to develop appropriate systems. Various models of process flow developed in manufacturing industries for management of production on the operational level, which might apply to construction, are presented and discussed. A detailed case study, in which the patterns of flow of finishing trades were observed and recorded in a large residential project, provided a basis for exploration of different models. The patterns of flow of trade crews through the building demonstrate reentrant flow similar to that found in semiconductor job shop situations, but also exhibit differences and contradictions with the main assumptions of factory production management. Heuristic solutions appear to hold promise for guiding the flow of construction crews at the daily operational level if and when conditions emerge that invalidate work packages assigned in a weekly work plan. }, author_keywords={Micro-variability, production flow, project management, resource utilisation, trade }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Folkestad2007, author={Folkestad, James and Howell, Gregory }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Do Projects Have Horsemen?: Investigating the Warning Signs of Unreliable Commitments}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={423-430}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/486}, affiliation={Associate Professor, Department of Construction Management, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, Phone +1 970/491-7823, FAX 970/491-2473, folkestad@cahs.colostate.edu ; Managing Director, Lean Construction Institute, 625 Main Street 1B, Louisville, CO 80027, Phone +1 970/408-1098, ghowell@leanconstruction.org (Also Partner, Lean Project Consulting). }, abstract={Projects are temporary business organizations that accomplish work through a networkof- commitments, commitments that both develop and rely on the relationship of trust. Commitment and trust is built via conversations, conversations that connect distributed knowledge, establish understanding and demonstrate trustworthiness. Missing conversations can lead to dissatisfied customers, operational breakdowns and project failure. This paper describes an ongoing observational-research study that is coding active project language on several construction projects. The objective of this research is to explore the relationship between conversation and various project and operational breakdowns. The end goal of this research is to establish warning signs that would indicate the need and direction for constructing intervening conversations that would improve network reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. This research has been modelled based on observational research methods used by John Gottman to study marriage and relationships. Dr. Gottman realized that couples struggled to break marital problems because they were not aware of the language patterns that were destructive to their relationships. After many years of observation Gottman was able to code language used by couples identified what he called the “four horsemen” or “warning signs” for a troubled marriage. Trained at using these warning signs, Gottman can observe a couple for five minutes and predict with more than 90 percent accuracy which couples will remain married which will divorce. It is suggested that, similar to Dr. Gottman's findings, there are "horsemen" or negative interactions that serve as warning signs for customer dissatisfaction, operational failure, low levels of innovation, and lost opportunity. This investigation is collecting observational data in an effort to identify the "horsemen" of lean Construction. Armed with these warning signs (horsemen), a trained project stakeholder could design and deploy critical conversations and subsequently increase project value. }, author_keywords={Network, commitments, linguistic action. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Friblick2007, author={Friblick, Fredrik and Akesson, Anna and Leigard, Anton }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Learning Lean Through Lean Game - A Case From the Infrastructure Industry}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={475-484}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/487}, affiliation={Department of logistics, University of Lund, Sweden, Phone +46 704 930 561, FAX +46 46 222 46 15, fredrik.friblick@tlog.lth.se ; Prolog Construction Logistics, Malmö, Sweden, Phone +46 708 189 828, FAX +46 40 122 367, anna.akesson@prolog.se ; Prolog Construction Logistics, Malmö, Sweden, Phone +46 704 676 292, FAX +46 40 122 367, anton.leigard@prolog.se }, abstract={Lean games can be a successful way to introduce Lean thinking but identifying and removing learning barriers in the games are important for successful quality learning that supports individual Lean thinking and behaviour after playing the game. FIA– Renewing in the infrastructure industry, developed a Lean game for educating all their members in Lean production. The game was initially influenced by the Buckingham Lean Game and then adjusted to fit an infrastructure production process. Focus in the design process and when playing the game is on breaking barriers and making the learners, learn through reflection. The game addresses basic Lean principles and tools such as; process design, eliminating waste concerning for example materials and space, push Vs pull, kanban card, kaizen and performance measurement. When this paper is written the Lean game InFrame has been played half a dozen times and so far no quantitative results can be presented. However, three levels of reflection can be distinguished. Facing learning barriers when meeting practitioners in the construction industry is a critical issue for learning. However, games as a first introduction to Lean for practitioners is a rather undiscovered field of research and need more attention in the future. Further development and research need to focus on what do learners bring from playing Lean games and how can the learning environment for practitioners be improved. }, author_keywords={Learning, Game development, Lean applied on infrastructure production, Process design, Continuous improvements. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Gehbauer2007, author={Gehbauer, Fritz and Zulch, Gert and Ott, Michael and Borkircher, Mikko }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Simulation-Based Analysis of Disturbances in Construction Operations}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={571-579}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/489}, affiliation={Professor, Institute for Technology and Management in Construction (TMB), University of Karlsruhe, gehbauer@tmb.uni-karlsruhe.de ; Professor, ifab-Institute of Human and Industrial Engineering, University of Karlsruhe, Gert.Zuelch@ifab.uni-karlsruhe.de ; Research Assistant, Institute for Technology and Management in Construction (TMB), University of Karlsruhe, ott@tmb.uni-karlsruhe.de ; Research Assistant, ifab-Institute of Human and Industrial Engineering, University of Karlsruhe, Mikko.Boerkircher@mach.uni-karlsruhe.de }, abstract={Construction site work is not only influenced by external factors such as weather, soil, available space and traffic conditions, but also by internal ones, in particular the qualifications of the employed personnel and the reliability of subcontractors. These factors are stochastic and thus cannot be predicted, thereby creating great difficulties for construction operations management. The implementation of simulation presents one possibility to support the planning of construction work and thus to secure construction operations. Within a current project, the simulation of construction operations is being supplemented by the registration of construction operations disturbances and their consequences. A database allowing for the recording and classification of disturbances at various construction sites was developed for this purpose. This disturbance database can be integrated into a simulation-based planning tool as an expandable data basis, allowing disturbances to be parameterised and to be taken into account in modelled construction operations. This tool also supports planning operations in Lean Construction such as work flow and resource levelling. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, simulation of disturbances }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Hill2007, author={Hill, Kristin and Silvon, Christine and Draper, John }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Anoher Approach to Transforming Project Delivery: Creating a Shared Mind}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={417-422}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/492}, affiliation={Associate Principal, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main Street, Louisville, CO 80027. 1 303 665 8191, Khill@leanproject.com ; Project Coach, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main Street, Louisville, CO 80027, 1 303 665 8191, CSlivon@leanproject.com ; Senior Project Coach, Lean Project Consulting, 625 Main Street, Louisville, CO 80027. 1 303 665 8191, Jdraper@leanproject.com }, abstract={The principles and practices of lean project delivery can be difficult for successful managers to accept. As in manufacturing, the shift to lean in project settings calls for a deep change in perspective, understanding and practice: a paradigm change. Most efforts to implement lean construction begin with pilot or laboratory projects designed to put teams in action using the Last Planner System®. This process-centred approach, while successful in the short term, is difficult to extend or sustain as participants do not yet understand the extent and nature of the change necessary or the opportunities it offers. Too often, early gains are lost as teams using lean approaches layered on or attached to traditional practices drift back to their old ways. This paper describes the use of Study Action Teams (SAT) to create a new sensibility, a way of thinking, or indeed a “shared mind” in a project team. The paper will discuss why a shared mind matters and how a SAT creates a shared mind, and will describe the SAT team and process. Participant comments and examples of resulting new leadership and team actions will be included. }, author_keywords={Study Action Teams, Leadership, Lean Project Delivery }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ioannou2007, author={Ioannou, Photios G. and Srisuwanrat, Chachrist }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Probabilistic Scheduling for Repetitive Projects}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={498-507}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/495}, affiliation={Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Univ. of Michigan, MI 48109-2125, Phone +1 734/764-3369, FAX +1 734/764-4292, photios@umich.edu ; Doctoral Candidate, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, Univ. of Michigan, MI 48109-2125, Phone +1 734/764-3369, FAX +1 734/764-4292, christ_cv@hotmail.com }, abstract={The sequence step algorithm for probabilistic scheduling of repetitive projects is a generalized methodology for scheduling projects with activities that repeat from unit to unit and have probabilistic durations. In simple terms it can be compared to PERT but for resource-constrained scheduling. The sequence step algorithm addresses for the first time the problem of scheduling repetitive projects with probabilistic activity durations while keeping resources (crews) employed continuously. This algorithm can be implemented in most general-purpose simulation systems. The algorithm is presented in detail and is applied to an example project with 7 activities and 4 repetitive units using a simulation model developed in Stroboscope, an activity-based simulation system. Numerical and graphical results help explain the algorithm and provide insight into the underlying tradeoff problem between reducing the expected crew idle time and increasing the expected project duration. }, author_keywords={Scheduling, repetitive projects, linear projects, line of balance, probabilistic scheduling, resource continuous constraints, uninterrupted work flow, simulation. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Jang2007, author={Jang, Jin Woo and Kim, Yong-Woo and Park, Chan Jeong and Jang, Woo Suk }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Importance of Partners in a Challenging Lean Journey}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={465-474}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/496}, affiliation={ }, abstract={If a general contractor were to implement the Lean system on a construction project, the most important factor to the success of the project would the subcontractor’s ability to implement Lean. The focus of this paper is team building in the project to improve Lean performance. This paper presents GS E&C’s (Engineering and Construction, the general contractor) pilot projects for production control, where Lean construction was implemented in a construction project with its subcontractors. In Korea, GS E&C is one of the leading companies using Lean construction in the construction industry. The findings of GS E&C’s pilot projects indicated that in a construction project, it had had trouble with production controls without subcontractor support. Another project showed that Lean was more successfully implemented when the subcontractor had strong Lean implementation experience and capability. This resulted in a new challenge for the general contractor – how to build relationships with subcontractors and improve their capabilities to implement Lean construction. Active involvement in the entire construction process, enthusiasm for, commitment to, and motivation for implementation, and keeping an open mind about the changes, were all found to be very important when implementing Lean construction by both general contractor and subcontractor. This paper also discusses the prerequisites and barriers to the implementation of Lean with its subcontractor in Korean construction projects. These pilot projects investigate the possibilities of achieving closer alignment between GS E&C and its subcontractors. Such alignment may be achieved by implementing Lean production principles not only within, but across organizational boundaries. }, author_keywords={Lean IT system, team building, subcontractor, and case study. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Jang2007, author={Jang, Jin Woo and Kim, Yong-Woo }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Use of Percent of Constraint Removal to Measure the Make Ready Process}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={529-538}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/497}, affiliation={Ph.D. Candidate, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 156 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6831, FAX 315/470/6879, jijang@syr.edu ; Assistant Professor, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6839, FAX 315/470-6879, ywkim@esf.edu }, abstract={Project process controls have traditionally occurred after-the-fact, and have focused exclusively on finding discrepancies and measuring results after a specific period of time. The Last Planner® System (LPS) is a production planning and control tool focused on the make-ready and shielding processes for improving workflow reliability. In the LPS, percent plan complete (PPC) has been used as a measurement of the shielding process. However, the system lacks a measurement for the makeready process. This paper proposes a new measurement for the make-ready process called percentage of constraint removal (PCR). This new measurement of constraint removal would be an efficient and flexible means to measure the make-ready process. This measurement provides 1) a leading indicator for work production performance, 2) a performance measurement for the make-ready process, and 3) how appropriately to size the look-ahead window. This paper presents three case studies of heavy construction projects where both performance measurements, PCR and PPC, were applied and investigated. How PCR and PPC are correlated with progress performance was also studied. }, author_keywords={Last Planner® System, make-ready process, percent plan complete, percentage of constraint removal, case study. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Jang2007, author={Jang, Jin Woo and Kim, Yong-Woo }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Using the Kanban for Construction Production and Safety Control}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={519-528}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/498}, affiliation={Ph.D. Candidate, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 156 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6831, FAX 315/470-6879, jijang@syr.edu ; Assistant Professor, Constr. Engr. and Mgmt. Program, Constr. Mgmt. and Wood Product Engrg. Department, 153 Baker Lab, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315/470-6839, FAX 315/470-6879, ywkim@esf.edu }, abstract={The paper explores non-traditional applications of the Kanban. “Kanban” is the Japanese word for “visual cards” and is a Lean tool developed in the automotive industry for JIT production. The Kanban acts as a work order without which work should not start, and has also been used as a material process flow technique for the pull replenishment logic system. The Kanban is usually used in the construction material procurement process by organizing orders, acting as a visual tool for the improvement of communication among all stakeholders, and insuring that the right amount of the right item is delivered at the right time. This paper seeks to promote the use of the Kanban as a work order for the construction production process, and as a construction process control tool. There are two types of Kanban described in this paper: the ordering Kanban, and the receipt Kanban. The Kanban is also useful as safety control tool because safety information is included on each Kanban. Due to the Kanban’s ability to increase communication, and to decrease the number of accidents, this paper highlights one of the most important findings of these case studies: the use of the Kanban in construction production and safety control. }, author_keywords={Kanban, production control, safety control, and case study. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Jung2007, author={Jung, Do Young and Han, Seung Heon and Im, Keon Soon and Ryu, Chung Kyu }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Modelling and Inventory Management in Construction Operation Involving On-Site Fabrication of Raw Materials}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={367-379}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/500}, affiliation={Researcher, Technology Research Institute, Daelim Industrial Corporation, Seoul, 110-732, Phone +82- 2-2011-8262, FAX +82-2-2011-8068, jungdy@yonsei.ac.kr ; Associate Professor, Civil and Env. Engineering Department, Yonsei Univ., Seoul, 120-749, Korea, Phone +82-2-2123-2799, shh6018@yonsei.ac.kr ; Ph.D. Candidate, Daelim Industrial Corporation, Seoul, 110-732, Korea, Phone +82-2-2011-8262, ksim21c@empal.com ; MS student, Civil and Env. Engineering Department, Yonsei Univ., Seoul, 120-749, Korea, Phone +82-2-2123-2799, rck69@hanmail.net }, abstract={There are usually plenty of material inventories in a construction site. More inventories can meet unexpected demands, and also they may have an economical advantage by avoiding a probable escalation of raw material costs. On the other hand, these inventories also cause negative aspects to increase costs for storing redundant inventory as well as decreasing construction productivity. Therefore, a proper method of deciding an optimal level of material inventories while considering dynamic variations of resources under uncertainty is very crucial for the economical efficiency of construction projects. This research presents a stochastic modelling method for construction operations, particularly targeting a work process involving on-site fabrication of raw materials like iron-rebar process (delivery, cut and assembly, and placement). To develop the model, we apply the concept of factory physics to depict the overall components of a system. Then, an optimal inventory management model is devised to support purchase decisions where users can make timely actions on how much to order and when to buy raw materials. Also, optimal time lag, which minimizes the storage time for pre-assembled materials, is obtained. To verify this method, a real case is applied to elicit an optimal amount of inventory and time lag. It is found that average values as well as variability of inventory level decreased significantly so as to minimize economic costs related to inventory management under uncertain project condition. }, author_keywords={Optimal inventory management, Inventory cost, Reorder point, Optimal time lag }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Kemmer2007, author={Kemmer, Sergio L. and Heineck, Luis F.M. and Novaes, Marcos de V. and Mourao, Carlos Alexandre M.A. and Alves, Thais da C.L. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Medium-Term Planning: Constributions Based on Field Application}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={509-518}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/501}, affiliation={Lean Initiative Coordinator, Construtora C. Rolim Engenharia Ltda., sergio@crolim.com.br ; Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Production Engineering, Federal University of Ceará ; Construction Manager, Construtora C. Rolim Engenharia Ltda., marcosnovaes@crolim.com.br ; Procurement Manager, Construtora C. Rolim Engenharia Ltda., alexandre@crolim.com.br ; Assistant Professor, Department of Structures and Construction Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil, thaiscla@yahoo.com }, abstract={The literature on lookahead planning suggests that there are six major functions embedded on its scope, i.e., shielding production, integration between long- and shortterm planning, controlling and learning, management of physical flows, cost control, and safety planning and control. Based on the literature, this paper presents a case study on the implementation of medium-term planning, a.k.a., lookahead planning, developed in a 8.758,80 m2 multi-storey residential building in the city of Fortaleza, Northeast of Brazil. Differently from other papers on this topic, the authors present a descriptive case study, based on field experience, not a prescriptive one. Recommendations provided by the literature were used to implement concepts related to lookahead planning. This paper presents evidence on how medium-term planning was firmly established as a managerial routine six months after its initial implementation and describes how the literature recommendations were put in practice. The authors also found out opportunities for improvement, e.g., constraints identified at the medium-term level had not been defined precisely resulting on low levels of task completion at the operational level. The paper concludes with recommendations based on how the company investigated has been able to sustain and improve practices related to medium-term planning. }, author_keywords={Planning, medium-term planning, constraints analysis. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Klotz2007, author={Klotz, Leidy and Horman, Michael }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Transparency, Process Mapping and Environmentally Sustainable Building}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={322-331}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/503}, affiliation={Research Assistant, Institute for Technology and Management in Construction (TMB), University of Karlsruhe, Am Fasanengarten, D-76128 Karlsruhe, Germany ; }, abstract={As Toyota’s production system matured, line managers made important use of visual controls with their kanban system and andon boards. Since encapsulated as transparency, these systems were remarkable for their ability to convey the wellbeing of production at any moment. This paper describes research investigating the impact of process mapping on transparency. This research will help determine whether process mapping may be a valuable tool to assist sustainable project delivery – where transparency is a key requirement. This paper has several contributions. First, a working definition of transparency based on lean theory is developed. A literature review follows that, using the framework provided by the transparency definition, presents evidence of transparency-related benefits provided by process mapping. Finally, the current progress and future plans of an ongoing project examining the relationships between transparency, process mapping, and sustainable project delivery at Penn State’s Office of Physical Plant (OPP) are described. Specifically, the development of process maps and a methodology to study their transparency impacts at OPP are discussed. }, author_keywords={Sustainability, transparency, project delivery, process mapping. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Lee2007, author={Lee, Doo Hee and Song, Young Woong and Choi, Yoon Ki }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Continuous Improvement Plan of Business Process in Construction Company}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={590-596}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/505}, affiliation={Graduate Student, Dept. of Architectural Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul, Korea, Phone +82-2-817-7339, FAX 816-3354, ldh800525@ssu.ac.kr ; Ph.D. Candidate, Dept. of Architectural Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul, Korea, Phone +82-2-817-7339, FAX 816-3354, songhero@ssu.ac.kr ; Assistant Professor, Dept. of Architectural Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul, Korea, Phone +82-2- 817-0704, FAX 816-3354, ykchoi@ssu.ac.kr }, abstract={Lean management has traditionally been adopted by manufacturing industries to improve operations through the identification and elimination of all forms of waste. The construction industry has also adopted this philosophy, primarily in the field of projects. In order to increase a company’s competitiveness and productivity, lean management is needed in the enterprise business process as well as in the field. The intent of this study is to explore a method of introducing lean management which continuously improves enterprise business processes. We have adopted the five fundamental concepts (specify value, identify the value stream, flow, pull, and perfection) of lean management as an approach, and applied BPM (Business Process Management) to continuously improve business processes. An example is presented to illustrate how lean concepts were applied to the actual budget process of Korean construction companies. }, author_keywords={Lean Management, Enterprise Business Process, BPM, Continuous Improvement }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Milberg2007, author={Milberg, Colin }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Tolerance Considerations in Work Structuring}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={233-243}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/508}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Civil and Envir. Engrg. Department, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92181-1324, 619/594-8474, cmilberg@mail.sdsu.edu }, abstract={Work structuring is the breakdown of both product and process into chunks, sequences and assignments to make work flow smoother and with less variability, in turn reducing waste and increasing value. Work-structuring decisions should include tolerance considerations. Tsao et al (2000) and Milberg et al (2001) illustrated how tolerancerelated problems that interrupt workflow generate waste. Tolerance accumulation is often ignored in design, resulting in unanticipated tolerance problems. Tolerance accumulation is dependent not only on tolerance allocation but also on assembly sequence and interface (connection) design, which are functions of work-structuring decisions. This paper discusses tools and techniques used in evaluating tolerance accumulation and process capabilities during detailed design in order to make work-structuring decisions, as well as how tolerance management should be integrated into work structuring. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, Work Structuring, Tolerances, Tolerance Management. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Filho2007, author={Filho, Antonio N. de. Miranda and Costa, Jorge Moreira da and Heineck, Luis F.M. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Exploiting Motivation in the Change Towards Autonomation in Construction Projects}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={442-452}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/509}, affiliation={Civil Engineer, M.Sc., Ph.D. candidate, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal, Scholarship Holder of the Brazilian Government (CAPES), anmirandaf@yahoo.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal, jmfcosta@fe.up.pt ; Civil Engineer, Ph.D., Senior Professor, Production Engineering Department, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil. freitas8@terra.com.br }, abstract={By strictly focusing on variables in the work environment, project managers are likely to overlook why workers behave differently when exposed to similar challenges under the same motivational factors. This is a problem that calls for a better understanding on worker motivation and personality types considered proper to the new production paradigm. The interest in the subject comes from the speculation that the implementation of autonomation in the construction sector may lie beyond the best practice programmes and the discussion of adequate cultural and leadership characteristics. This paper summarizes an empirical qualitative study, which aims to illustrate differences in personal motives and how such differences can be balanced to better suit lean practices. The discussion is based on lessons learned from two case studies where autonomous crews were implemented to react to the vicissitudes of work in a construction projects context. The conclusions show the close relationship between worker motivation and strategic choices in production strategy. This has allowed the identification of two important conditions that need to be attained by firms interested in autonomous crews. }, author_keywords={Worker motivation, teambuilding, strategic choices, lean production. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Filho2007, author={Filho, Antionio N. de Miranda and Costa, Jorge Moreira da and Heineck, Luiz F.M. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Assessing the Effects of Structural Differences on Action, Reaction and Conformation in Construction Projects}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={380-389}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/510}, affiliation={Civil Engineer, M.Sc., Ph.D. candidate, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal, Scholarship Holder of the Brazilian Government (CAPES), anmirandaf@yahoo.com.br ; Civil Engineer, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal, jmfcosta@fe.up.pt ; Civil Engineer, Ph.D., Senior Professor, Production Engineering Department, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil. freitas8@terra.com.br }, abstract={Research studies indicate the existence of three generic ways for dealing with uncertainties: control, flexibility and buffers. These are the ways of assuring organizational robustness to support the proactive and reactive management of events that occur during the project. Traditionally, project management practices have strongly relied on the combined use of control and buffers. However, the increasing notion of project complexity has changed paradigms and pushed structural changes towards the development of flexibility capabilities. One such change is the adoption of a more flat organizational structure characterized by autonomy and decentralization, being its most visible aspect the multi-functional teams working as mobile production cells. This paper focuses on structural changes required for this type of flexibility and its effects on managers’ interventions and use of buffers. Interviews were conducted with project managers from five high rise building firms who adopt different organizational structures and a parallel between their distinct practices was established. The analysis of strategic contents shows the successful implementation of this type of flexibility as the result of strategic choices accompanied by bundles of best practices at the operational level and by proper decisions regarding the use of buffers at the tactical level. }, author_keywords={Flexibility, production cells, best practices, strategic choices. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Mitropoulos2007, author={Mitropoulos, Panagiotis and Cupido, Gerardo and Namboodiri, Manoj }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Safety as an Emergent Property of the Production System: How Lean Practices Reduce the Likelihood of Accidents}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={282-293}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/512}, affiliation={Assistant Professor, Del E. Webb School of Construction, Arizona State University, Tempe AZ, 85287- 0204. Email: takism@asu.edu. ; Previously graduate assistant, Del E. Webb School of Construction, Arizona State University, Tempe AZ, 85287-0204. Email: gcupido@periniwest.com ; Graduate assistant, Del E. Webb School of Construction, Arizona State University, Tempe AZ, 85287- 0204. Email: manoj.namboodiri@asu.edu. }, abstract={The current approach to accident prevention does not account for the effect of work practices on the likelihood of accidents. This paper addresses the question “How do the production practices, and particularly lean practices, affect the likelihood of accidents in construction operations?” First we propose that the production system affects the likelihood of accidents in two ways: (1) by generating (or preventing) situations with increased task demands (increased potential of accident), and (2) by affecting the workers’ ability to cope with these situations (capabilities) and avoid errors. Then, we review the production system factors (technical and social) that influence the likelihood of accidents. The effect of production practices was examined through an exploratory field study of framing operations. The case study compared the production practices of a High Performance crew (in terms of productivity and safety) with the practices of an average performance crew. The evidence indicates that a focus on reducing uncertainty, errors and rework (practices consistent with lean production practices) and matching skills to task demands increased productivity while reducing the likelihood of accidents. }, author_keywords={Safety management, Accident prevention, Production management }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Parrish2007, author={Parrish, Kristen and Wong, John-Michael and Tommelein, Iris D. and Stojadinovic, Bozidar }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Exploration of Set-Based Design for Reinforced Concrete Structures}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={213-222}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/515}, affiliation={Graduate Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, kristen_parrish@berkeley.edu ; Graduate Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, jmwong@ce.berkeley.edu ; Director, Project Production Systems Labouratory http://p2sl.berkeley.edu/ and Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 510/643-8678, FAX 510/643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu ; Associate Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, 721 Davis Hall, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1710, Phone +1 510/643-7035, FAX 510/643-8928, boza@ce.berkeley.edu }, abstract={To explore the feasibility of improving the delivery process of reinforced concrete, we focus in this paper on reinforcing bars (rebar) used in cast-in-place (CIP) concrete. Specifically, we describe the methodology for set-based design of rebar that we are pursuing in an ongoing research effort. Set-based design makes it possible to maintain feasible solutions for longer in the design process than is otherwise affordable using point-based design. It thereby allows for input from several project participants at the same time and early on, as well as throughout project delivery. Set-based communication helps participants avoid rework and through teamwork develop a more globally satisfactory design solution than would otherwise be the case. To illustrate the methodology, we examine the canonical example of reinforcement at a beam-column joint and study the relationships between those who design the joint and those who fabricate and install it: mainly the structural engineer, the fabricator, and the rebar placer. The set-based approach for concrete design is promising. It warrants further effort in characterizing sets at different levels of abstraction and in articulating what different participants value, both of which are needed for sets to be narrowed effectively and for the process to lead to a solution. }, author_keywords={lean construction, product modelling, set-based design, reinforced concrete, rebar, design methodology, product development, design management, production system design }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Pavez2007, author={Pavez, Ignacio and Alarcón, Luis F. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Lean Construction Professional’S Profile (LCPP): Understanding the Competences of a Lean Construction Professional}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={453-464}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/516}, affiliation={Research Engineer, MSc, Production Management Center (GEPUC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, School of Engineering, Department of Construction Engineering and Management, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3547050, ipavez@ing.puc.cl ; Professor of Civil Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, School of Engineering, Department of Construction Engineering and Management, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3544245, lalarcon@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={The consolidation of lean construction demands the application of its concepts and principles in practical situations, but until now most of the implementations have been very fragmented. They have mainly focused on the improvement of project performance through the application of new tools and methodologies, leaving aside organizational and human issues. Therefore, it is necessary to state the role of people and to identify what competences they need for working in a lean organization. In order to advance in these issues, an assessment of what skills Project Manager’s (PM) need and a research of how construction PMs use their time were recently completed, complementing these results with an analysis of the best practices identified in previous studies. This paper proposes a way to support lean construction in contractor organizations by creating a Lean Construction Professional Profile (LCPP), which identifies the competence areas needed and organizes them in a consistent model which was validated by lean construction experts and professionals. The results allowed to infer that a lean construction professional needs to develop simultaneously three competence areas: enterprise vision, technical competence and social competence; which are associated to the three elements of lean management: business purpose, processes and people. These results are expected to contribute to improve the effectiveness of professionals who work in a lean organization. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, lean management, human resource development, competences }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Pavez2007, author={Pavez, Ignacio and Alarcon, Luis F. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Lean Construction Professional's Profile (LCPP): Understanding the Competences of a Lean Construction Professional}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={453-464}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/517}, affiliation={Research Engineer, MSc, Production Management Center (GEPUC), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, School of Engineering, Department of Construction Engineering and Management, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3547050, ipavez@ing.puc.cl ; Professor of Civil Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, School of Engineering, Department of Construction Engineering and Management, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Phone +56 2 3544245, lalarcon@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={The consolidation of lean construction demands the application of its concepts and principles in practical situations, but until now most of the implementations have been very fragmented. They have mainly focused on the improvement of project performance through the application of new tools and methodologies, leaving aside organizational and human issues. Therefore, it is necessary to state the role of people and to identify what competences they need for working in a lean organization. In order to advance in these issues, an assessment of what skills Project Manager’s (PM) need and a research of how construction PMs use their time were recently completed, complementing these results with an analysis of the best practices identified in previous studies. This paper proposes a way to support lean construction in contractor organizations by creating a Lean Construction Professional Profile (LCPP), which identifies the competence areas needed and organizes them in a consistent model which was validated by lean construction experts and professionals. The results allowed to infer that a lean construction professional needs to develop simultaneously three competence areas: enterprise vision, technical competence and social competence; which are associated to the three elements of lean management: business purpose, processes and people. These results are expected to contribute to improve the effectiveness of professionals who work in a lean organization. }, author_keywords={Lean construction, lean management, human resource development, competences. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ramkrishnan2007, author={Ramkrishnan, Karthik and Roper, Kathy and Castro-Lacouture, Daniel }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Green Building Rating and Delivery Systems in Building Construction: Toward AEC+P+F Integration}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={332-342}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/518}, affiliation={Graduate Research Assistant, Building Construction Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA. Phone +1 678/602-9092, FAX 404/894-1641, karthikr@gatech.edu ; Assistant Professor, Building Construction Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA. Phone: +1 404/385-4139, Fax +1 404/894-1641, kathy.roper@coa.gatech.edu ; Assistant Professor, Building Construction Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, GA 30332, USA. Phone: +1 404/ 385-6964, Fax +1 404/ 894-1641, dcastro@gatech.edu. }, abstract={Within the past decade, new building construction in the United States is being affected by the availability of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). This rating system profoundly alters design and operational issues that include energy and water use, indoor health, recycling for occupants, access to mass transit, materials impacts, landscaping, construction waste management, and maintenance. However, very little is known about the cumulative effects of the rating system across different phases of the project life cycle, such as planning, architecture, engineering, construction and operational facility management (AEC+P+F). As project stakeholders embrace AEC+P+F integration in the quest for improving project performance indicators (e.g., cost, time, quality, etc.), the impact of LEED on this integration, or vice versa, is still unknown. Moreover, the implications of the delivery system in LEED attainment are not clearly associated with the level of AEC+P+F integration. This paper presents the early stages of research focused on determining the associations between LEED criteria, project life cycle, stakeholders and typical delivery systems used in building construction. Results are validated using opinions from experts across the different disciplines in a future study. A matrix of weighted indices is also presented and explained so that increased collaboration may be incorporated into the construction process. The effects of this collaboration on the overall project life cycle, and the association with lean construction (LC) are discussed. }, author_keywords={LEED rating, project life cycle, delivery system. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Salem2007, author={Salem, O. and Lothlikar, H. and Genaidy, A. and Abdelhamid, T. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={A Behavioour Based Safety Approach for Construction Projects}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={261-270}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/525}, affiliation={Associate Professor, Construction Engineering and Management Program, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0071 ; Graduate Student, Construction Engineering and Management Program, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0071 ; Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0071 ; Associate Professor, Construction Management Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 }, abstract={The application of behaviour-based safety in the construction industry has been limited. The objective of this research is to provide a decision support system, which will assist construction companies in implementing behaviour-based safety. The research was carried out by performing a detailed review of the existing literature on the topic and carrying out a pilot study to verify the validity of the model. As a part of the model a rating system has been developed which can quantify and evaluate the performance of different sub-contractors working for the primary contractor. The results showed that an adequate improvement in safety performance is possible with this approach. Most of the groups participating in the study showed an improvement in at least three of the safety-based behaviours. Some groups showed improvement in more than six behaviours. }, author_keywords={Behaviour based safety, applied behaviour analysis, behaviour modification, accidents/injuries. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Schnonherr2007, author={Schnonherr, Ignacio and Alarcon, Luiz F. and Maturana, Sergio }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Quantifying the Benefits of Using E-Marketplace in Construction Companies}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={560-570}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/526}, affiliation={R.A., Escuela de Ingeniería, Universidad Católica de Chile, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile. E-Mail: ischonherr@gmail.com ; 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: smaturan@ing.puc.cl }, abstract={The procurement process is critical for construction companies. In order to improve it, many are resorting to e-marketplaces although they usually do not know exactly how much they can gain by doing so. This paper describes a study that quantified the benefits of using an e-marketplace to support the procurement process of a construction company. In this study, 25 construction companies were studied, all of which use Iconstruye, Chile’s main e-marketplace in the construction industry. The research shows that the adoption of an e-marketplace reduces turnaround time, errors and urgent orders, and irregular purchases. In general, a more reliable procurement process directly contributes to a leaner construction process by reducing upstream variability, procurement cycle times and the need for large inventories on site. Users also perceive an improvement in certain global indicators when using an emarketplace. }, author_keywords={e-marketplace, construction procurement process, supply process, lean construction. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Schramm2007, author={Schramm, Fabio K. and Formoso, Carlos T. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Using visual interactive simulation to improve decision making in production system design}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={357-366}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/527}, affiliation={MSc, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Management, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), PhD Candidate at NORIE/UFRGS, fabioks@ufpel.edu.br, Rua Almirante Barroso, 1734, CEP: 96010-280, Pelotas/RS, Brasil, Phone: +55 53 3222 7981 ; PhD, Associate Professor, Building Innovation Research Unit (NORIE), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), formoso@ufrgs.br, Av. Osvaldo Aranha, 99 – 3º andar, CEP: 90035-190, Porto Alegre/RS, Brasil, Phone: +55 51 3308 3959 }, abstract={The performance of production systems in construction is strongly affected by variability, interdependence and uncertainty. Simulation models are useful for modelling the behaviour of production systems, and understanding the combined effects of those factors. Although simulation is widely used in several industrial sectors and their benefits are well-known, most of the applications in construction have been developed by academics. Very little has been reported in the literature on the use of simulation for the design of real production systems in the construction industry. One of the main causes for its poor dissemination is the lack of confidence and perception of validity in simulation models by decision-makers. Visual Interactive Simulation (VIS) is a technique which integrates mathematical and symbolic models with runtime interaction and real-time graphic display of the model output. Such features can potentially make it easier to introduce simulation in the task of designing production systems in construction, by getting decision-makers involved in both processes of building and using the model. This paper presents an exploratory study on the application of VIS for improving the decision-making process in the production system design of a building project. A process of external wall plastering was used to test the use of VIS and to assess the difficulties and benefits of this technique. The main findings are related to the improvement of communication and understanding between the user and model builder, as well as the need for creating opportunities for reflection. }, author_keywords={Visual interactive simulation, production system design, decision-making. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Senior2007, author={Senior, Bolivar A. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Implications of Action Theories to Lean Construction Applications}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={407-416}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/529}, affiliation={Associate Professor, Construction Management Department, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-1584; email: bolivar.senior@colostate.edu }, abstract={Two models of Action Theory offer fundamentally different views of the merits and appropriate use of plans. While the Deliberative Action model considers plans as a necessary prerequisite for project execution, the Situated Action model offers an alternative view in which plans are intrinsically imperfect due to the limited information visible to any planning agent. This paper discusses these competing models, emphasizing their implications to Lean Construction and the construction project planning and execution process in general. Two current planning and execution paradigms are used to illustrate these issues, namely the Critical Path Method and the Last Planner System. The former is a prototypical Deliberative model technique, while the latter exemplifies a Lean Construction application with many Situated Action model features. This paper ends with a conclusion section discussing the implications of both models and recommendations for further research. }, author_keywords={Lean Construction, Planning, Action Theory. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Simonsson2007, author={Simonsson, Peter and Emborg, Mats }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Industrialization in Swedish Bridge Engineering: A Case Study of Lean Construction}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={244-253}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/530}, affiliation={Ph.D. Student, Div of Structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden Phone +46 920 493140, FAX +46 920 491913, Peter.Simonsson@ltu.se ; Professor, Div of Structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden (see above), Head, research and development, Betongindustri AB, SE 100 74 Stockholm, Phone +46 8 6256200 }, abstract={The purpose of the project has been to evaluate and possibly improve the degree of industrialization and productivity when constructing bridges in full scale. Earlier theoretical studies have indicated that, if prefabricated reinforcement, self compacting concrete (SCC) and permanent formwork are used the degree of industrialization can be increased markedly. To be able to realize this, Lean Construction principles prove to be important utensils during the planning and design phase as well as during the construction of a full scale project. Throughout the design and planning of this first full scale bridge project, intensive contacts between designer, contractor, client and material suppliers were established. The design team concluded that the production time at site could be reduced with up to 20 % and the number of workers could be reduced by virtually 50 % during almost half the project. This was realized by planning with Last Planner ideas, and designing the project properly using modern construction tools and materials. The design team also concluded that if the concrete class increased some of the very dense shear force reinforcement could be left out. The evaluated outcome of the demonstration project, i.e. potential productivity improvements, structural quality improvements, immediate feasible waste and cost reductions and the positive impact on the working environment, shows that the predicted benefits made were fulfilled. }, author_keywords={Bridge design, Concrete, Productivity, Industrialisation, Lean, Waste, Logistics, Full scale test, Prefabrication, Reinforcement }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Simonsson2007, author={Simonsson, Peter and Rwamamara, Romuald }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Consequence of Industrialized Construction Methods on the Working Environment}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={302-311}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/531}, affiliation={Ph.D. Student, Div of structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden Phone +46 920 493140, FAX +46 920 491913, Peter.Simonsson@ltu.se ; Ph.D. Student, Div of structural Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden Phone +46 920 492353, FAX +46 920 491913, Romuald.Rwamamara@ltu.se }, abstract={Traditionally, the working environment has been poor especially when it comes to steel reinforcement and concrete casting on construction sites. Industrialised construction methods such as self compacting concrete (SCC) casting and prefabricated steel reinforcement are creating a basis for an improved working environment. By using these methods, it is assumed that the cost for sick leaves due to ergonomic injuries and accidents are reduced as health and safety risks inherent to the traditional working methods are decreased. Observations along with video filming and informal interviews were performed. With a sequence-based activity method ErgoSAM, an ergonomic risk analysis was conducted. The analysis showed that industrialised methods reduced ergonomic workload on concrete workers. The industrialisation of the production process through the introduction of innovative construction methods has benefited the construction workplace environment as well as the customer value in terms of improved material handling, elimination of additional adverse affect on health of handling vibrating tools, reduced on site congestion and reduced over all material costs. }, author_keywords={Working environment, Steel reinforcement, Concrete casting, Industrialisation, Lean construction. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Srisuwanrat2007, author={Srisuwanrat, Chachrist and Ioannou, Photios G. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={The Investigation of Lead-Time Buffering Under Uncertainty Using Simulation and Cost Optimization}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={580-589}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/533}, affiliation={Ph.D. Candidate, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, 2350 G.G. Brown, University. of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2125, christ_cv@hotmail.com ; Professor, Civil and Env. Engineering. Department, 2350 G.G. Brown, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2125, photios@umich.edu }, abstract={The impact of uncertainty and variability in the productivity of trades aggravates the problem of work interruptions and idle time within repetitive activities. To eliminate the interruptions and idle time in order to achieve smooth work flow of resources, activities are deliberately delayed from their early start date. However, this practice induces a problem of tradeoffs between project cost and duration. Many recent studies have suggested that different types of buffers can be used to absorb the impact of uncertainty and variability on production work flow and most studies focus on using buffer to determine “when to halt an on-going production line”. In contrast, this paper focuses on “when to start a production line so that there is no interruption”. Two different approaches to lead-time buffering, the sequence step algorithm (SQS-AL) and the completed unit algorithm (CU-AL), are investigated using STROBOSCOPE (a discrete- event simulation system) with a special search add-in that implements a genetic-algorithm (GA). The investigation reveals that applying lead-time buffer provides better work flow and greater project profit; however, these depend on the penalty cost of work flow interruption and indirect cost. Both algorithms have implications that translate to advantages and limitations depending on assumptions, simplicity of simulation model, project characteristics, and uncertainty. }, author_keywords={Lead-time buffering, the sequence step algorithm, the completed unit algorithm, production work flow, continuous resource utilization, idle time, simulation, STROBOSCOPE, genetic algorithm, profit maximization. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Ward2007, author={Ward, Steven. A. and McElwee, Ward }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Application of the Principle of Batch Size Reduction in Construction}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={539-548}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/538}, affiliation={MCIOB, MILM, Leckford, Crookes Lane, Kewstoke, W-S-M. BS22 9XB UK. Phone +44 1934 625936. steve@leanpractitioners.co.uk ; MCIOB, MILM, Leckford, Crookes Lane, Kewstoke, W-S-M. BS22 9XB UK. Phone +44 1934 625936. steve@leanpractitioners.co.uk }, abstract={Dominated by sub-contracting, mass production remains the prevalent modus operandi in the UK construction sector; this is contrary to single piece flow, a fundamental principle of lean thinking. The concept of batch sizing in a construction setting is explored together with the effects that reduced batch sizes have on construction programmes. Also examined are the practical and cultural issues that arise in reducing batch sizes both at master planning level and in the tradesman’s approach to the work. The effect of batch size reduction is quantified in two construction case studies. The observations of case study one are compared with a computer model developed by the authors, founded on the theory of lean and batch sizing. The model assesses the programmed completion time for projects using multiple trades, operating with differing batch sizes and cycle times. The theoretical background to the findings are developed as a result of the observations compared with the computer model to provide a mathematical expression to identify the relationship between batch size reduction and overall out-turn programme length. The implications for the construction sector in developing a small batch approach are discussed, and a methodology provided for calculating the effects of such an approach on overall project duration. }, author_keywords={Batch size, lean, construction }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Watkins2007, author={Watkins, Matt and Mukherjee, Amlan and Onder, Nilufer and Mattila, Kris G. }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Understanding Labour Productivity as an Emergent Property of Individual and Crew Interactions on a Construction Site}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, pages={400-405}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/539}, affiliation={Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Computer Science, Michigan Tech. USA Phone +1 906- 487-1952, mtwatkin@mtu.edu ; Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Env. Engineering, Michigan Tech.. USA Phone +1 906- 487-1952, amukherj@mtu.edu ; Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science, Michigan Tech.. USA Phone +1 906-487- 1641, nilufer@mtu.edu ; Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Env. Engineering, Michigan Tech.. USA Phone +1 906- 487-2523, mattila@mtu.edu }, abstract={The construction site is a complex system composed of interactions in space between individual crewmembers and crews. Congestion often leads to lowered productivity. Lean construction research has shown that effective work flow management can improve construction labour performance, and labour flow contributes to lean work flow. The existing body of research in the study of construction labour productivity has primarily used a top-down approach to modelling and understanding the impacts of space congestion on labour productivity. In this paper, we propose a bottom-up approach and explore whether labour productivity on a construction site can be treated as an emergent property resulting from interactions between individual crewmembers and different crews. We present our pilot implementation and initial results depicting the relative value of various areas of space and the effect of the number of available tasks on congestion. }, author_keywords={Agent Based Modelling, Productivity, Space Allocation }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, } @CONFERENCE{Samir O.2007, author={Samir O., Mikati and Roller, Timothy G. and Tommelein, Iris D. and Khanzode, Atul }, editor={Pasquire, C.L, Christine L. and Tzortzopoulos, Patricia }, title={Priority Conversations: A Case Study on Priority Walls}, journal={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, booktitle={15th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction}, year={2007}, url={http://www.iglc.net/papers/details/1366}, affiliation={Undergraduate Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, smikati@berkeley.edu ; Undergraduate Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of California, Berkeley, CA, timroller@gmail.com ; Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, and Director, Project Production Systems Laboratory, http://p2sl.berkeley.edu/, 215-A McLaughlin Hall, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-1712, Phone +1 (510) 643-8678, FAX +1 (510) 643-8919, tommelein@ce.berkeley.edu ; Business Analyst, DPR Construction, Inc., 1450 Veterans Blvd., Redwood City, CA 94063, and Graduate Student, Civil and Envir. Engineering Department, Stanford University, Stanford CA, atulk@dprinc.com }, abstract={This paper presents and analyzes work structuring and collaboration efforts of the general contractor and specialty contractors working together as a team to implement lean practices during construction of a medical facility. We describe the team’s focus specifically on ‘priority walls’ as a driver for coordinating work among contractors. We then elaborate on the tools the team used to support their language (“priority conversations”) and action, as well as on the successes and failures of their approach. Success of this effort stems from the team’s willingness to experiment, collaborate, and learn; use of an owner-provided incentive sharing plan; and other lean practices including use of the ‘big room’ (‘oba’ or ‘oobeya’ in Japanese), development of a Building Information Model (BIM) that allowed for integration and coordination of trade-specific design details, promotion of reliable planning, as well as use of standardization combined with offsite fabrication and assembly. The paper illustrates how this combination of lean practices changed the nature of the conversation specialists have in the course of development of a project and yielded value to all project participants as well as to the project as a whole. }, address={East Lansing, Michigan, USA }, issn={ }, publisher={ }, language={English}, document_type={Conference Paper}, source={IGLC}, }