Last Planner System, Social Networks and Performance of Construction Projects

Abstract

Last Planner System (LPS) has made significant improvements in project performance worldwide. It is assumed that LPS implementation improves communication among members of the organization. However, the way that LPS management practices and organization’s social networks are related to project performance is still unknown. The purpose of this study is to analyse the relations between LPS implementation, social networks metrics and performance in construction projects. A correlation analysis was applied to implementation levels of LPS, social network metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in construction projects. The implementation levels of LPS practices were measured during LPS meetings. Social network data was collected by an on-site survey. The participant companies agreed to a KPIs report, encompassing nine projects over three months. This paper presents significant correlations tying project performance to social network metrics and to LPS implementation levels, in nine projects from two Chilean construction firms. Implementation level of LPS appears related to network average degree and density but that does not always mean better projects performance. The relations found are a tool that could be used to implement improvements in management practices and organizations. Identification of social networks’ optimum metrics related to project performance still requires further research.