Assessment of lean concepts in the South African construction industry

Abstract: The South African construction sector has been confronted with the issues of not meeting project schedules, budget and specifications set by the client and architect or engineer. Several studies have demonstrated that the applied models of project management and tools it employs fail to deliver projects on time, at agreed budget and at desired quality. Lean construction promotes the construction development and accomplishing the project objectives by reducing waste. However, in spite of the potential benefits of lean construction and assuming its awareness among stakeholders, little has been reported regarding its execution for performance enhancement and the successful fulfilment of clients’ needs in the South African construction industry. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess lean concepts and to recommend the most effective options for lean concepts’ adoption in South Africa. A quantitative approach has been used for this study. The data used in this study was derived from primary sources using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed both physically and using Google Forms. Out of the 200 questionnaires distributed, 152 were returned. However, only 151 questionnaires were usable, representing a 75.5% response rate. The data collected were analysed using the descriptive statistics (mean item score) and multivariate statistics (exploratory factor analysis) and Cronbach's alpha reliability test. Findings from the data revealed that there is a high level of awareness of lean principles and there is an average level of awareness of lean techniques within the South African construction industry. The study also revealed that there is an average level of application of lean principles while there is a low level of usage of lean techniques within the South African construction industry...M.Tech. (Construction Management