Last planner® system and planned percent complete: An examination of individual trade performances

Abstract

There is a dearth of research on Lean in the Irish construction sector and on the application of Lean thinking and practices on live capital projects. Lean Construction (LC) is recommended as an antidote to productivity issues encountered on capital project delivery. Last Planner® System (LPS) is a key tool of LC, and high Planned Percent Complete (PPC) achievement is positively correlated to increased productivity. This study examines individual trades' differing PPC performances on two overlapping capital projects; it considers explanations for those differences; and it identifies areas for improvement to enhance PPC on future capital projects. LC-driven contractor selection, early trades engagement in the design process, implementation of all functions of LPS, Lean education and training, increased modularisation and prefabrication, and embracing technological advances are posited as areas for focused improvements.