Lean Construction: what does it mean?

As this is a sector deeply associated with lack of efficiency, delays, budget deviations or high levels of waste, Civil Construction is now beginning to adopt a Lean work methodology: the so-called Lean Construction. Understand why, in this article!

Lean: what is it about?

The word “Lean” has several meanings and can be used in multiple contexts. However, when applied to a work execution context, it refers to the need to “minimize, reduce or eliminate” waste. When referring to Lean Construction, value creation is also implied. The aim is to implement sustainable construction practices, where functionality is achieved using the latest technological innovations.

Lean Construction: when did it appear?

The Lean Construction concept has existed since the early 90s. At the time, a group of students from California began looking for ways to optimize the execution of processes in the sector. In a first phase, this happened through the introduction of disruptive tools and equipment. More recently, Lean Construction has emerged as an approach strongly influenced by the improvement of business management processes, with a view to the sustainable development of construction and the reduction of waste.

Lean Construction and technological disruption

Today, largely due to the influence of this methodology, technologies such as 3D and 4D invade the sector. Technological advances, combined with the adoption of solid sustainable development practices, translate into the possibility of designing and building better, safer and longer-lasting buildings, with less need for investment and fewer environmental consequences. Currently, Lean Construction actively contributes to increasing project quality. With more time to design, architects and engineers can focus on what really matters: meeting client expectations.

Through Lean tools and processes, it is possible to optimize workflows. The exchange of information between the owner of the work and the professional responsible for it becomes a simple process. At any time and anywhere, it is possible to establish successful interactions and improve the quality of the service provided. On the other hand, there is also the issue of bureaucracy and excessive administrative procedures to which the professionals responsible for the project are subject. Using the right management technology, it becomes much simpler to deal with time-consuming and repetitive procedures, without any added value.

Lean philosophy: what does it mean for the development of turnkey projects?

The approach is simple and very attractive for a sector where budgets, deadlines and security are critical factors. Although project delivery is very different from the definition of methods applied to construction, the principles of Lean philosophy can be associated with the delivery of turnkey projects, as they imply the combination of both disciplines. With the aim of producing predictable results, in a controlled and properly planned environment, the principles of the Lean philosophy translate into:

Greater planning and accuracy

In any turnkey project, a Lean work philosophy means establishing a fluid line of communication between the agents involved in the project. This means close and close collaboration between contractors, suppliers, architects, designers and engineers to ensure deadlines are met and workflows are streamlined.

Agile and effective workflows

By implying a continuous and uninterrupted workflow, the Lean methodology results in reliable projects. Since it requires the establishment of a fluid line of communication between everyone involved in the materialization of the project, this methodology promotes agile and deeply incisive workflows, without wasting time or inaccuracies.

Value creation

Once you understand exactly what the goals and intentions of theproject, a Lean work methodology requires the meticulous definition of all processes inherent to value generation. This means that each stage must be meticulously planned, so that unforeseen events or delays do not arise.

MEDD: commitment to continuous innovation

InMEDD, the Lean work philosophy translates into continuous improvement in service provision. We look for effective ways to reduce waste and continually improve the processes associated with the delivery of turnkey projects in order to satisfy all of our clients' needs and requirements.

Count on us!