The Evolution of Lean Construction Education at US-based Companies
2021
Download PDFDOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/98f2b7d5h
Authors: Lincoln H. Forbes, Zofia K. Rybkowski, Cynthia C.Y. Tsao
Citation:
Forbes, L., Rybkowski, Z., & Tsao, C. (2021). The Evolution of Lean Construction Education at US-based Companies. In Lean Construction Journal pp. 182–193.
Abstract:
Question: How are US-based companies training their employees and project team members in lean construction / lean project delivery principles and techniques?
Purpose: To identify potential commonalities in practices used by leading US-based organizations/companies to train project team members in lean construction / lean project delivery.
Research Method: Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with company representatives to determine the specific practices employed in preparing stakeholders for participation in lean projects. We surveyed a cross-section of established construction firms, design firms, and consultants to identify best practices currently in use.
Findings: This study found that while there are some similarities in how trade associations, companies, consultants, and owner organizations are managing lean training, there are substantial variations in the design of training programs and approaches. This indicates that best practices in lean training are still emerging.
Limitations: The sample of organizations contacted was relatively small, only comprising companies known to maintain active lean construction programs. Due to the relative novelty of lean construction, training programs are not a standard requirement across the industry.
Implications: Companies that have successfully implemented lean in project delivery have developed best practices in training within their own organizations/companies, and these practices have been identified in this study. Their lessons learned can provide guidance to other companies that wish to begin implementing lean on their projects.
Value for Practitioners: This paper provides case study examples to organizations wishing to adopt lean practices.
Keywords: Lean construction education, Lean Construction Institute (LCI), Associated General Contractors (AGC), CM-lean certificate, coaching
Paper type: Full paper