Zonal Delivery Planning in the Construction of Infrastructure Projects: a Case Study

Takt Planning (TP) is a significant Lean methodology being used in construction projects.This paper analyses the implementation of Zonal Delivery Takt Planning (ZDTP) in extensive infrastructure projects.ZDTP, grounded on Takt planning principles, aligns work processes to optimise efficiency and minimise waste.The study utilises design science research to develop a logistics framework that enhances resource allocation and streamlines process.An analysis is conducted on a real-world case study of a road construction project facing significant delays.The framework, shown via a sequential process, encompasses plan analysis, zone and sequence determination, plan optimisation, and buffer integration.The research employs a work density method (WDM) to objectively analyse the productive efficiency of decision-making and determines the best number of zones, takt time, and total project length.The methodology is missing in the current state of takt and ZDTP in road construction and has been extensively examined in building projects, yet it remains underexplored in infrastructure projects, with minimal empirical findings reported.Therefore, the conducted research presents findings from a case study on the application of TP in large-scale infrastructure projects.Results demonstrate a substantial decrease in project time by 36 days and higher efficiency due to improved team organisation, increased transparency, and optimised material management.The paper closes with suggestions for further research and the use of ZDTP in construction of infrastructure and roads projects.