Status of lean construction implementation among small and medium building contractors (SMBCs) in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to ascertain the extent to which the practices of small and medium building contractors (SMBCs) conform to lean construction (LC) principles. Ultimately, practical results encourage a discourse on the true potentials and challenges to the holistic uptake of LC principles in the Ghanaian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on a qualitative case study approach. The data was obtained through face-to-face structured interviews.

Findings

Across the cases, it was realized that there is a low-level application of LC principles among SMBCs. There was no indication that lean concepts were used on a company-wide basis in the Ghanaian construction industry. Furthermore, the study revealed that the traditional wasteful approach to managing construction projects was still prevalent among the firms.

Practical implications

This paper uses the 4P model as a foundation for assessing the extent to which the practices of SMBCs conform to LC principles. Practically, the study also created a certain level of awareness among the SMBCs about LC, LC principles and the benefits of the application of these principles within organizations.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge as it uncovers the status of LC implementation among SMBCs in the Ghanaian construction industry. The findings that are presented in this paper can be used as a starting point to disseminate the research and practice of LC among SMBCs.

Citation

Ankomah, E.N., Ayarkwa, J. and Agyekum, K. (2020), "Status of lean construction implementation among small and medium building contractors (SMBCs) in Ghana", Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, Vol. 18 No. 6, pp. 1691-1709. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-12-2019-0345