CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT IN A COMPLEXITY PERSPECTIVE

Abstract: Construction management is based on the Newtonian principle that the construction process can be foreseen and planned, and that the plan can be followed through the whole project execution. Deviations between plan and reality are seen as planning errors, which more diligent and detailed planning might have taken care of. Based upon Koskela’ explanation of construction as a production this understanding of construction management has been criticized lately. The paper endorses this critique but argues that construction must not only be understood as a production, but should also be seen in a complexity perspective. This view brings not only Lean Construction’s broader understanding of project management into play, but introduces a completely new management approach as well. These ideas may seem unsuitable in construction, but recent Danish experiences show their value, and a new initiative in the Danish construction industry uses them as its basis. Keywords: complexity, project management, lean construction, implementation , lifelong learning

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