LEAN CONSTRUCTION AND LAST PLANNER SYSTEM IN THE SAUDI ARABIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

The dissertation is aimed at exploring the implementation of Lean in the construction environment in Saudi Arabia and come up with an effective lean construction tool that can be utilised to eliminate such delays in the construction industry. The objectives of the research study are to conduct a comprehensive literature review exploring Lean Construction and its concepts, identify key barriers and obstacles in implementing Lean concepts, identify key strategies that can lead to implementing Lean concepts, and propose and validate an appropriate model of Lean Construction tool for Saudi Arabia context. The tool that was found to be suitable is Last Planner System (LPS). The research data was obtained from a survey questionnaire that was utilised as a technique to investigate the current Lean Construction practices. Also, to identify the key obstacles impeding the implementation of LPS concepts in Saudi, to identify success factors that can promote the implementation of the model and validate the proposed LPS model for implementation. The research study concludes that the LPS is an ideal tool that can be implemented in Saudi Arabia. The LPS implementation in the Saudi environment was found to have numerous benefits to the construction industries that it would reduce delays in construction projects and overcome damage cases that might occur. Moreover, the implementation of the LPS would assist construction companies to work within the budget and complete the project within the completion deadline. The respondent identified educating and guiding last planners, comprehensive communication between the construction teams, supportive and helpful management team, and an inspiring and encouraging individuals to implement change as the critical success factors contributing to the implementation of LPS.