Waste is never a sustainable concept. This applies just as much to society as it does to professional processes and methods in the construction industry. A different, innovative approach is therefore much more efficient: lean construction.
Lean construction is a project delivery process that uses lean methods to maximize value for stakeholders while reducing waste. The primary goal is always to increase productivity, profit and innovation within the industry.
But what exactly is behind the method? And how can its benefits be effectively implemented in construction practice? We shed light on the key aspects and show how digital tools in combination with lean construction can lead to lean structures, even in complex projects.
The most important facts in brief
Lean construction management optimizes construction processes by minimizing waste and increasing efficiency, with digital tools playing a key role.
The five principles of lean management form the basis for more efficient, customer-oriented business processes.
The concept can be an effective response to challenges such as skills shortages or material shortages.
What is Lean Construction Management?
The term refers to a progressive approach in the construction industry that aims to optimize processes and use resources efficiently. Originally applied as lean production in the manufacturing industry, the core of this approach is the minimization of waste - be it in terms of time, materials or labour.
By implementing lean principles, lean construction aims to realize projects faster, more cost-efficiently and with higher quality. It is not just about eliminating unnecessary steps, but also about creating added value for customers and stakeholders. This concept integrates all project participants - from architects and engineers to the craftsmen on site at the construction site - and promotes a culture of continuous improvement and effective communication. Lean construction therefore fits seamlessly into contemporary BIM concepts.
What are the advantages of lean construction management?
Lean management has proven to be revolutionary for many industries, including construction and construction management in particular. As a result, its benefits are manifold and it has become an indispensable part of efficient company and project management.
Increasing efficiency and reducing costs
Increasing efficiency is at the heart of lean construction management. Processes are optimized by minimizing the amount of time, materials or work required, which leads to a significant reduction in costs. This approach enables companies to achieve more with fewer resources while sustainably reducing operating costs.
Improved customer orientation
Another key aspect is the increased focus on the customer. By focusing on what the customer really expects, products and services can be better tailored to their needs. This leads to greater customer satisfaction and promotes long-term customer relationships.
Promotion of a continuous improvement culture
Lean construction management promotes a corporate culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and employee engagement. Employees are encouraged to actively participate in identifying potential for improvement, which not only leads to more efficient processes, but also increases employee satisfaction and loyalty.
Flexibility and adaptability
In a fast-moving business world, lean management enables companies to remain flexible and adaptable. By constantly reviewing and adapting processes, companies can react quickly to changes in the market and implement innovations more effectively.
Quality improvement
By focusing on process optimization and the reduction of errors, lean construction management makes a decisive contribution to increasing quality. Higher product or service quality strengthens the brand image and can become a decisive competitive advantage.
What are the 5 principles of lean management?
The concept is based on five pillars that translate the benefits into concrete working practice. These principles form the foundation for leaner, more effective and more customer-oriented business and project management.
Define value from the customer's perspective (Value)
The first principle emphasizes the importance of defining value from the customer's perspective. It is about understanding exactly what the customer really needs and values. This understanding is crucial in order to develop products or services that not only meet the needs of the market, but also offer real added value for the customer.
Identifying the value stream (Value Stream)
This pillar focuses on identifying the value stream - the entire flow of materials and information required to create a product or service. All steps are analyzed in order to identify and eliminate waste, such as unnecessary stock, waiting times or inefficient processes.
Creating flowing processes (Flow)
The third principle aims to create a smooth and continuous process flow. By eliminating disruptions, processes are made more efficient, resulting in faster throughput times and lower costs. A flowing process makes it possible to react quickly to customer requirements and increase the company's flexibility.
Establish the pull principle (Pull)
Refers to demand-oriented production. Instead of producing for stock, products or services are only manufactured when there is actual demand from the customer. This leads to a reduction in overproduction and storage costs and ensures that resources are used more efficiently.
Striving for perfection (Perfection)
Nobody is perfect - but you should at least try to be. Lean management is an ongoing process that involves always looking for improvements, whether in terms of quality, efficiency or customer satisfaction. This principle promotes a culture of constant self-reflection and improvement within the company.
Conclusion - Lean construction as part of the key to success
Agility and leanness are not just terms that are associated with clear benefits in our everyday lives. In the construction world, too, lean construction management represents a transformative force that maximizes effectiveness and minimizes waste.
In modern construction, the use of advanced technologies is therefore essential to improve efficiency, accuracy and communication. Viewpoint For Projects and Viewpoint Field View are digital solutions that combine their respective advantages to harness the full power of lean principles:
Viewpoint for Projects
ISO 19650 conformity: The tool complies with the international standards for information management in the construction industry.
Optimized construction processes: Construction processes are made more efficient through more precise planning and analysis.
Improved communication and coordination: Viewpoint For Projects facilitates collaboration between different project participants.
Data-supported decision-making: Enables quick decisions based on extensive data.
Access to construction documentation from anywhere: The tool is accessible both in the browser and in offline mode on desktop or mobile devices.
Viewpoint Field View
Defect and task management: Enables the creation of user-defined tasks - in real time and with precise position marking.
Forms for smartphones and tablets: Simplifies the collection of relevant information and speeds up daily tasks.
Digitization of information: Creates synergies and efficiency benefits through the digitalization of work processes.
Real-time communication between the office and construction site: pen and paper is a thing of the past. Ensures trouble-free communication.
Configurable project models: Allows the creation of detailed project models with comprehensive tracking options.
Innovator for rational and safe processes: Supports the development of rational and safe construction processes.
Reports and dashboards: Provides site managers with detailed insights through visualized charts, statistics and grid views.
By combining lean principles with digital tools, a revolutionary improvement in the construction industry is achieved, offering sustainable growth, increased efficiency and higher customer satisfaction. Lean construction, enhanced by advanced software, is therefore a key factor for long-term success in a dynamic construction world.
