Techniques and benefits of implementing the last planner system in the Gaza Strip construction industry

Tayeh, B A; Hallaq, K A; Zahoor, H and Al Faqawi, A H (2019) Techniques and benefits of implementing the last planner system in the Gaza Strip construction industry. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 26(7), pp. 1424-1436. ISSN 0969-9988

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to prioritize the vital tools/techniques for the effective implementation of the last planner system (LPS) in the cross-cultural setting of a developing country, i.e. Gaza Strip. Besides, the potential benefits of implementing LPS are prioritized. Design/methodology/approach: The significant techniques and likely benefits of LPS implementations were identified through comprehensive literature, followed by their verification through a pilot study. The quantitative data were collected using a questionnaire survey from 89 companies, operating in the Gaza Strip construction industry. The relative important index was calculated for prioritizing the significant tools/techniques (16) which support the effective LPS implementation, and highlighting the potential benefits (10) achieved through LPS implementation. Findings: The results showed that the “use of visual devices to spread information in the construction site,” “attendance of key actors” and “look ahead plan” are the most important tools/techniques supporting LPS implementation. The top three potential benefits of implementing LPS include: “allows a better understanding of the program control,” “maximizes the co-operation and confidence among team members” and “allows the manager to better visualize the work program.” To prevent any waste in project time and to ensure the material supply and continuity of works, the study recommends advance supply and storage of demand materials, and early availability of the shop-drawings for acceptance by the superintendent. Practical implications: The study’s findings are expected to guide the key construction stakeholders to prioritize their energies toward effective LPS implementation in the Gaza Strip. Originality/value: Though this study pertains to Palestine, its methodology can be generalized in other countries and regions, having a similar work environment, after making necessary cultural adjustments.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: benefits; construction industry; gaza strip; last planner system; stakeholders; tools/techniques
Index terms: manager, developing country, drawing, construction site, survey, last planner system, methodology, program, questionnaire, look-ahead plan, Palestine, prioritizing, work environment, Gaza Strip, implementation, construction industry
Subjects: management, physical geography and landforms, software systems, research methods, Geography, development economics, project controls, decision analysis, industry analysis, data collection methods, practitioner, technical documentation, work location, contractual arrangements
Topics: International Construction, Design Practice, Digital Applications, Site Management, Organizational Design, Time Control, Geographical Context, Research Practice, Procurement, Roles and Professions, Risk Management
Descriptive scope: 5 PCTEA

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here