Abstract:
The construction industry is one of the important sectors of the country; it needs
some improvements in its thinking, processes and way of workings so that it can add
value to money and customers. The purpose of this study is to examine the current
challenges of construction industry and propose a road map for the implementation of
lean construction in Pakistan to address them. Literature review presents that worldwide
construction industry faces problems in project delivery and how lean is adding value and
increasing client satisfaction. Hurdles faced in implementation of lean in construction
industries of the world and the way they coped with them is assessed through
questionnaire survey. Findings reveal that wastage, time and cost overrun are the biggest
reasons that necessitate lean construction implementation. The respondents stated that
after application of lean construction, issues have been mitigated. Human reluctance has
been found to be the biggest challenge and suggested that creating awareness of lean
construction is the most beneficial in its implementation. Considering the data from
questionnaire survey, interviews from senior management of Pakistani construction firms
were conducted to find out what possible hurdles can be met in implementing lean
construction in Pakistan and their possible solutions. Findings reveal that lack of
knowledge is the major hurdle in its implementation in Pakistan and suggested that
Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) should play a role in its awareness. Trainings and
seminars, reducing academic-industrial gaps, adoption of lean culture, standardization in
construction processes, value oriented approach and appreciation of use of modern tools
can facilitate the lean implementation in Pakistan. PEC should engage a team of experts
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to train professionals and by personal meetings, encourage the organizations to introduce
lean construction in their processes. Once the construction industry starts reaping its
benefits maintain the change.
