Enabling lean through human capacity building: an investigation of small and medium contractors

Abstract

PurposeThis paper investigates the lean enabling human capacities and develops a framework integrating individual, organisational and environmental level strategies to build human capacities for successful lean implementation of small and medium contractors (SMCs) in Sri Lanka.Design/methodology/approachAn interpretivism stance is adopted, and a qualitative research approach is used. The data collection technique adopted is semi-structured interviews. In total, 24 experts with experience in lean implementation of SMCs were interviewed, and data were analysed through code based content analysis using NVivo10.FindingsTeam working skills, critical thinking, leadership, communication skills, work ethics, knowledge and positive attitudes were identified as lean enabling human capacities for SMCs. The framework developed in this study provides individual, organisational and environmental level strategies that can be used to build human capacities necessary for enabling lean in construction SMCs.Practical implicationsThe study will be beneficial to construction SMCs, academics, researchers and government institutions in developing countries, which share socio-economic, demographic or cultural traits similar to Sri Lanka.Originality/valueA novel lean enabling human capacity building framework is developed with the strategies required for building those capacities in order to accelerate the lean implementation in construction SMCs. This contributes to the body of knowledge as it uncovers individual, organisational and environmental level strategies for enabling lean through human capacity building in Sri Lankan SMCs.

Human capacity building strategies for improving PPP implementation in Tanzanian construction projects

“…This finding is consistent with (World Bank, 2016; Kavishe et al. , 2018; Ranadewa et al. , 2021) which recommended “establishment of in-house training to reduce the costs of hiring international experts all the time”.…”

“…Capacity building is also defined as a multi-level learning process, in which training is one of its components (Ferrero et al, 2019). This implies that training is of significance because an individual can develop or acquire new skills through training which can be delivered in various forms (Ika and Donnelly, 2017); and associated with individual-level strategies (Ranadewa et al, 2021). From the above definitions of "Capacity building", it's evident of the similarities with the definitions of "human capacity building" which are equally focused on the ability of an individual to set objectives and to achieve them using one's own knowledge and skills (Matachi, 2006).…”

“…In additional to the PPP specific strategies identified in Table 1, the following non-PPP lean enabling human capacities for successful lean implementation of small and medium contractors in Sri Lanka have been identified: Team working skills, critical thinking, leadership, communication skills, work ethics, knowledge and positive attitudes (Ranadewa et al, 2021). From Table 1, it is evident that there is a paucity of Tanzanian-specific empirical studies on PPP.…”

“…, 2019). This implies that training is of significance because an individual can develop or acquire new skills through training which can be delivered in various forms (Ika and Donnelly, 2017); and associated with individual-level strategies (Ranadewa et al. , 2021).…”

Challenges for last planner system implementation; Sri Lankan construction industry perspective

“…According to Rathnayaka et al ( 2020), almost all construction projects have been terminated due to the current epidemic situation as the severe impact on the resource manufacturing and production industry terminations, such as long-term delivery and supply chain of essential construction materials and equipment. Considering such conflicts, lean construction can be viewed as a strategic option for Sri Lanka when considering its cost leadership, differentiation, and focus strategies (Ranadewa et al, 2021;Senaratne et al, 2008). However, many challenges hinder LPS implementation in the construction industry.…”