Generic Implementation of Lean Concepts inSimulation Models
2004
Download PDFDOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/b1e4b3f8i
Authors: Jack M. Farrar, Simaan M. AbouRizk, Xiaoming Mao
Citation:
Farrar, J., Abourizk, S., & Mao, X. (2004). Generic Implementation of Lean Concepts in Simulation Models. Lean Construction Journal 2004 pp 1-23.
Abstract:
Lean production theory, as a production management tool, describes a system that
delivers a finished product free from defects, to a customer in zero time, and with
nothing left in inventory. Recently, the concepts of lean production have been
introduced to construction yet have generally been rejected. Lean construction
concepts were recently tested in a simulation environment and were found to be
effective. To facilitate the implementation of the concepts of lean production in
construction simulation, and subsequently within an actual construction project, a
generic approach has been created and is presented in this paper. A special purpose
simulation (SPS) template was developed for surface works operations in road
construction as an example application. The template provides a means of testing the
concepts of lean production on road construction simulation models to quantify their
impact on road construction processes. This general approach for implementing lean
production theory in construction simulation modeling also proved capable of directing
the process of optimizing simulation models.