Flow Dimensions at Swedish Construction Contractors
2019
Download PDFDOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/22h4d4h1e
Authors: Brian Wernicke, Helena Lidelöw, Kajsa Simu
Citation:
Wernicke, B., Lidelöw, H., & Simu, K. (2019). Flow Dimensions at Swedish Construction Contractors. In Lean Construction Journal pp. 24-46.
Abstract:
Research Question: How do different flow dimensions and their interrelations appear in Swedish construction settings?
Purpose: To contribute to the ongoing discussion on flow in construction by providing empirical data to a proposed flow model and widening the current understanding within Lean Construction with theory from industrialized construction and operations management.
Research Design: Transcriptions of nine in-depth interviews with managers at different Swedish contractors were utilized to identify different flow dimensions.
Findings: Results show different patterns which describe contractors’ focus on different flow dimensions.
Limitations: The study is performed in Swedish construction companies with limited generalizability to construction in general. Data collection based on interviews might struggle with objectivity and multi-case studies do not coincide with in-depth research in each single case.
Implications: Different flow dimensions are relevant within construction contractors and should be addressed by either management activities or an operations strategy.
Value for practitioners: Increased understanding of flow in construction based on empirical data enables management of different flow dimensions to evolve contractors’ operations strategies towards Lean Construction or industrialized construction.
Keywords: Industrialized construction, Lean Construction, operations management, operations strategy
Paper type: Full paper