A Modeling Approach to Understand Performance of Lean Project Delivery Sytem

Abstract

Many authors suggest that to overcome the problems of the construction industry such as adversarial relationships, low rates of productivity, lack of cooperation, ineffective communications, etc., it is necessary to move toward a better coordinationof participants and more collaborative and integrated approaches (e.g. Lean Project Delivery (LPD)). Currently, there is not enough experience and information tounderstand (1) the adoption of LPD in the construction industry, and (2) the operation of LPD with respect to its organizational structure, operational system, andcontractual relationships in a comprehensive manner. The purpose of this paper is to present a research initiative currently in progress that involves the development of models that can help to understand the factors that affect performance of LPD and their mechanisms to impact project results. The development of robust modeling capabilities for LPD can contribute to a better use and design of these systems. The paper provides a review of the literature on project delivery systems and explores the potential use of different modeling approaches to characterize the performance ofLPD. A research methodology to develop and test the models is described for analysis and feedback from fellow researchers.