The concept of 'institutional waste within theConstruction industry': A potential theoreticalframework

2017

Download PDF

DOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/a6e0d5b4i

Authors: Saad Sarhan, Christine Pasquire, Andrew King

Citation:

Sarhan, S., Pasquire, C. & King, A. (2017) The concept of Institutional Waste within the Construction industry: A potential theoretical framework. In Lean Construction Journal pp. 12-24.

Abstract:

Question: Do imperfect institutional forces contribute to the generation and persistence of
waste in construction projects?
Purpose: The ultimate purposes of this paper are to: (1) Contribute to the understanding
of waste in construction by suggesting a new perspective on the generation and
persistence of waste in construction projects; and (2) Shed light on a number of
regulations, norms and routines, which are taken for granted and impede efficiency
and improvement efforts in construction.
Research Method: The analysis of this paper is based on a critical literature review of
theories of lean thinking, waste in construction and organizational sociology, in
addition to industry experience and observation of co-authors.
Findings: This paper establishes the significance of considering the influence of the
institutional context on the generation and persistence of waste in construction.
Research Limitations: This paper is conceptual and makes a case for further
empirical research using neo-institutional theory – a branch of organisational sociology.
Originality/Implications: The concept of ‘institutional waste within construction’ offered
within this study is novel and has the potential to deliver a theoretical framework
that can be used for the prescriptive causal analysis of waste in construction,
existing at the organisational, commercial and institutional levels.
Value to practitioners: The institutional perspective offered within this study highlights to
practitioners the importance of thinking systemically and structurally. It could also
enable clients and decision makers to consider the impact of institutional factors on
the way they procure construction projects, and thus their desired project outcomes.