Lean Function Deployment

This paper introduces and formalises a technique for minimising the share of non-value adding activities by improving the workflow reliability in AEC processes. The technique has been named Lean Function Deployment (LFD). Its framework is built upon the existing system of QFD and draws its essence from the principles of the new construction philosophy which views the construction to be composed of conversion processes and material and information flow processes. Ways to implement this technique as well as to use it for analysing the wastes has been discussed. It is proposed that LFD can play a significant role in rationalising and re-engineering the workflow processes of the AEC sector thereby allowing for preventive actions against occurrence of wastes in the flow processes.