Analysis of Lean Construction Cases in Ireland

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify what lean tools and techniques construction companies are using in Ireland and what common challenges and benefits exist for their implementation. Currently, research on lean construction (LC) implementation in Ireland is weak and fragmented, and this paper will help address this gap in literature and provide an overview of this activity. Through analysis of the 17 cases gathered through the Lean Construction Ireland (LCi) “Book of Cases 2022,” this paper identifies that most case studies originated from large, privately owned, general contracting companies and a wide array of lean tools are being used. All cases indicated benefits from LC, the most common being an improvement in quality, then cost, followed by time and safety. Covid-19 was found to be a catalyst for lean initiatives. Leadership support, staff training, piloting lean initiatives, developing a collaborative culture and continuous improvement were identified as important factors for implementing and sustaining LC. Although the sample size is limited, this paper does provide a useful indicator of overall LC activity in Ireland that will be of interest for academics and practitioners to consider and build upon.