Power, W; Sinnott, D and Lynch, P (2024) Takt complementing Last Planner® system on residential construction projects. Construction Economics and Building, 24(4-5), pp. 58-80. ISSN 2204-9029
Abstract
Ireland is experiencing a national housing crisis, and this is replicated across several developed economies. This challenges governments and housebuilders to increase production whilst balancing human resource and supply chain constraints. Lean construction methodologies have enhanced project delivery in other sectors of the general construction industry. This study evaluates the outcomes of Last Planner® System and Takt planning implementation on two residential projects. The study adopted a mixed methods approach utilising case study design and data collected from a literature review, site observation diary, site documentation analysis, and semi-structured interviews. Findings demonstrate schedule reduction opportunities through higher and more consistent PPC, reduction of cycle times, and enhanced adherence to start and finish dates. The study proposes a more holistic focus is needed on productivity improvement initiatives on the entire project scope as opposed to singular exercises on aspects like internal finishes alone. Increased inter-contractor communication and engagement led to a positive working environment with greater focus on the softer aspects of collaborative working. This study posits the discipline, detail, and diligence of Takt complements Last Planner System to deliver an enhanced production-system that betters traditional schedule milestones in residential project delivery.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | collaboration; cycle time; Last Planner system; lean construction; takt |
| Index terms: | exercise, mixed method, case study, productivity, housebuilder, project scope, PPC, diary, residential construction, planner, construction industry, implementation, project delivery, Ireland, interview, lean construction, literature review, documentation, human resource, collaboration, last planner system, methodology, residential project, finishes, housing |
| Subjects: | building construction, economic development, research methods, Geography, contractual arrangements, construction type, standard forms of contract, practitioner, health behaviours and lifestyles, scope management, project controls, industry analysis, management, construction integration, professional development, building materials, data analysis and analytics, project delivery, profession, data collection methods |
| Topics: | Information Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy, Construction Technology, Roles and Professions, Human Resources, Urban Studies, Design Practice, Site Management, Organizational Design, Time Control, Project Management, Geographical Context, Health and Safety, Procurement |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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