Framework for selection of lean construction tools based on lean objectives and functionalities

Lean construction (LC) has been used as the potential project management philosophy to overcome some productivity and waste issues and addressing challenges of the construction industry. Furthermore, to facilitate LC implementation, different lean tools have been developed for LC. Presently, the initial selection of lean tools is predominantly objective-based with little consideration to its conformity with the construction methodology. This research aims at bringing clarity within the mindset of constructors in selecting the most appropriate tool during the initial selection phase. An extensive literature review is carried out in identifying the objectives and functionalities of each LC tool. The results indicate that many tools have almost similar objectives but different functionalities thereby making the selection criteria sensitive to the functionalities of the lean tools. The functionalities of lean tools have to be consistent with the respective construction processes for the successful implementation of LC. Finally, a framework has been proposed for selecting the most appropriate lean tools. The major contribution of this study is to improve the decision making capability of the constructors in selecting the most appropriate tool that works in consistence with the construction.