Adoption of Lean Approach to Enhance Performance of Fast-Track Construction Projects

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Civil Eng. Department, Faculty of Engineering, Shoubra, Benha University, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

The construction industry in Egypt plays a pivotal role in the country's economy, however, inefficient project management practices have been identified as a significant challenge, impacting both the environment and the economy. Evidence showed that the integration of lean construction (LC) concepts and tools into construction management not only addresses challenges but also generates a synergistic impact on project performance. The study investigates the level of awareness, adoption, perceived benefits, and challenges of lean construction in Egypt. A questionnaire survey was used and was collected from 133 respondents from different levels among construction specialists. Additionally, the research explores the feasibility of a tailored framework for the adoption of lean principles, specifically targeting fast-track projects. The findings of this research contribute significantly to bridging the knowledge gap in the application and understanding of lean construction principles in the Egyptian construction industry. The study reveals a diverse landscape of awareness among respondents, emphasizing the importance of increasing knowledge levels for effective implementation. Participants with higher awareness demonstrated substantially higher adoption rates of lean methods, highlighting the interconnected relationship between awareness, adoption, and positive outcomes. This underscores the need for targeted educational programs and training initiatives to enhance professionals' knowledge and skills in effectively implementing lean principles in fast-track projects, especially in the face of current economic challenges. The proposed conceptual framework integrates insights from the literature review and questionnaire analysis, offering practical guidance for implementing lean construction principles. This will enhance the productivity of construction projects with best quality, limited waste, and on-time delivery. In conclusion, this research contributes to advancing knowledge and understanding of lean construction principles in the context of the construction industry in Egypt, providing a foundation for further research and practical strategies. It contributes to lean practices' effective adoption, promoting the industry's advancement and sustainability. Applying LC methods will enhance the implementation of fast-track projects with high quality, less cost and time. Future research considerations include contextual influences and regulatory support for lean construction in developing countries.

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