Discover Lean: Insights from Over a Decade of Industry Research
Discover Lean: Insights from Over a Decade of Industry Research
Since 2013, Dodge Construction Network and the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) have partnered on research efforts to better understand how Lean practices influence project success in the design and construction industry. Together, we have conducted six extensive surveys of industry stakeholders including owners, designers, and contractors—to uncover the real-world impact of Lean approaches.

This SmartMarket Insight presents the most critical findings from that decade of research, offering a data-driven look at how Lean can:
- Improve key performance metrics like cost and schedule
- Strengthen team dynamics across project stakeholders
- Drive overall organizational success
What You’ll Learn:
The report is organized into three categories:
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Performance Challenges in the Construction Industry
The research uncovers common pain points such as schedule delays, budget overruns, and poor team dynamics. These systemic issues within the construction industry persist, even after increased adoption of Lean approaches and methods.
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Use and Impact of Lean Practices
Find out which Lean methods are most widely used and how deeper engagement can lead to better project performance, outcomes, and more collaborative teams.
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Implementation of Lean in the Industry
See where awareness and adoption stand today and how untapped Lean potential could be the key to transforming project outcomes.
LCI would like to extend our gratitude to Dodge Construction Network for over a decade of meaningful collaboration to improve the future of the built environment by providing relevant and timely metrics to the industry at large.