An Assessment of Lean Construction Tools and Conformance among Pampanga-Based Construction Companies

Abstract

The construction industry is continuously evolving and improving. Lean Construction is a method used in managing construction projects, which aims to reduce waste while maximizing the value. The implementation of Lean construction is noticeable in several areas around the globe and there is a little information existing about the spread of the implementation among the construction industry in the Philippines. This study aimed to assess the application of lean construction principles and tools in Pampanga-based construction firms. The researchers utilized quantitative, descriptive approach wherein a survey questionnaire was administered among 385 Pampanga-based construction professionals for the awareness and conformance to lean construction, 21 respondents answered a pairwise questionnaire that was used to develop a ISM-based framework where Lean Construction sub-principles were used as variables. The study revealed that most of the tools were used by the respondents but they were not aware that these tools are lean construction tools.  The results showed that the conformance to lean principles of the respondents had a 71.80% conformity. Among all the principles of lean, Continuous Improvement principle is the most applied and Culture/People has the least conformance. Moreover, an ISM-based framework was developed to show if one lean sub-principle could help achieve another lean sub-principle.