Lean Supply Systems in Construction

This paper proposes a strategy to improve the management of supply systems in construction using lean principles and techniques. The objective is to assure on-time delivery of information and materials to project sites at least cost and maximum value for the final customer. The primary mean for achieving this objective is to accomplish supply management functions with least waste; e.g., low supply and demand reliability, large inventories not needed to absorb variability, and physical waste. The paper explores supply complexity in construction in order to better understand where certain types of waste are originated. The strategy proposes the use of a web-based tool based on the Last Planner System to improve planning reliability so demand variability is minimized, the use of regional logistics centers for distribution of materials to sites, the use ofkanban techniques to pull selected materials on a just-in-time basis, and a link between production control and material management processes on site. It also highlights the importance of minimizing material lead times with emphasis on standardization and pre-assembly practices so supply systems are more effective. It concludes highlighting the most important challenges for the implementation ofthis strategy.