Development of Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) Based Lean Construction Implementation Framework
2022
Download PDFDOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/27b6f6h3e
Authors: Mughees Aslam, Zhili Gao, Gary Smith, Ying Huan, Megan Orr
Citation:
Aslam, M., Gao, Z., Smith, G., Huang, Y., & Orr, M. (2022). Development of Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) Based Lean Construction Implementation Framework. In Lean Construction Journal pp. 105–129.
Abstract:
Question: How to standardize Lean Construction (LC) implementation so that construction companies can implement lean practices to achieve rapid initial successes?
Purpose: LC implementation process is not yet standardized; therefore, there is variation of construction project performance improvement within the range of less than 10% to even greater than 30%. Although some researchers have endeavored to develop LC implementation frameworks, these frameworks are difficult for the construction companies to follow because they either only explain the theoretical aspects of LC or were developed based on the inputs only from few lean experts. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop an easy-to-follow LC implementation framework based on robust analysis of the contextual relationships among factors from successful lean projects.
Research Method: The method of this study included several steps: (1) Confirming LC successful factors from literature review, (2) Establishing relationships between factors using a questionnaire-based survey and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) technique, (3) Developing ISM based matrices and model, and (4) Developing LC implementation framework.
Findings: This study has developed a robust LC implementation framework based on 12 critical success factors (CSFs). Sixty-six pairwise comparisons between CSFs revealed the influential impact of one factor onto the others. Using the ISM technique, the hierarchy of these CSFs was established within the framework. The developed implementation framework contains four driving factors that have the most driving power, three dependent factors as well as five linkage factors for facilitating LC implementation. The top four most important and prerequisite factors for efficient implementation of LC are: Acquiring requisite knowledge and training regarding LC tools and techniques; Ensuring adequate commitment from all the stakeholders including the workforce; Improving collaboration, communication, and visualization; and Long term partnership and trust worthy relations.
Implications: The framework standardizes lean implementation processes and improves the lean culture within an organization. This is especially useful for the new LC companies moving towards lean, and also facilitates the successful implementation of LC for the entire construction industry.
Keywords: Lean Construction, Success factors, statistically analyzed relationships, LC Implementation Framework, Interpretative Structural Modeling
Paper Type: Full Paper