Lean implementation in the construction industry: A review

The construction industry plays a vital role in the economy but is also a significant contributor to waste generation and resource depletion. Lean construction has emerged as a strategy to address these challenges by focusing on minimising waste, enhancing efficiency, and maximising value throughout the project lifecycle. Moreover, the lean concepts positively impact sustainability in construction projects. Therefore, this study aims to review the evolution, principles, and implementation of lean construction in the construction industry. Through review, the study concludes that the lean construction principles encompass Customer Value, Value Stream, Flow, Pull, and Perfection. Further, the most commonly cited lean tools utilised in the construction industry include Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Last planner system (LPS), visual management, Total Quality Management (TQM), Poka-Yoke, 5S, Takt Time Planning (TTP), first-run studies, JIT, material or component flow, work structuring, kanban, supply chain integration, cell production units, continuous improvement cells, prefabrication and modularisation, Jidoka (in-station quality), line of balance method (LOB), 5 Why's, Gemba walk, PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle, A3 report, Target value design (TVD) and other. Further research is needed to refine lean construction methodologies implementation and overcome implementation barriers, ensuring its widespread adoption and long-term success in the construction industry.