Lean construction in large Chinese construction firms: a SWOT analysis

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a growing trend in applying lean principles outside of manufacturing. In the construction context, lean construction has become an established theme since the early 1990s. However, very limited studies are reported about its implementation in Chinese construction industry. This study undertakes a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of large Chinese construction firms, evaluating their potential strengths, perceived weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats associated with the application of lean construction. This study is qualitative in nature. Using interview questions, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 27 Chinese building professionals from large construction firms in China. It highlights several constraints, ranging from lack of understanding of lean construction; to hierarchical organisational structures that discourage empowerment, use of low skilled workers and a high tolerance for an untidy workplace, and others. The opportunities are realised through government’s push to upgrade firms’ standards; role of jianli, collaboration with foreign construction firms, and promotion of prefabrication. Furthermore, intense competition, highly-demanding clients, rising material prices, and others are some of the foreseen threats to the adoption of lean construction. This study concludes with some suggestions to improve lean construction implementation in China. These include the establishment of a long-term philosophy and organisational culture that would call for leaders to be more pro-active on the jobsites, to understand the work flow, and to encourage foremen to be committed in work plans. It is also important to introduce, educate and reinforce the lean knowledge to the employees at all levels as they are the real implementers of lean construction.