Construction Law

Everything You Need to Know About Lean Construction Part 2

Lean construction combines many of the principals that successful construction companies already follow. In part one of this four-part series, a Florida construction attorney at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants discussed the origins of lean construction. Now, we will be diving into what makes lean construction such a valuable methodology for contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, designers, and owners alike.

The Principles of Lean Construction

While its overarching concept can be applied to any project, there are no set rules for lean construction. Rather, there are general principles that should be followed closely to maximize the benefits these applications. The basic principles of lean construction are as follows:

Prioritize Owner Needs

As mentioned in part one, lean construction prioritizes collaboration among all parties on a construction project. This entails understanding that an owner’s needs go beyond what is stated in a contract. Whether you’re a contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier, you should communicate with the relevant parties to help you discern not only what an owner is looking for in a project, but also why they are looking for it. Communications should be kept open throughout a project to keep expectations realistic and mitigate potential disputes that would require the dispute resolution services of a Florida construction attorney.

Understand the Value Stream

Once you understand what owners really want, you can establish a value stream, a series of steps to see a project through from beginning to end while reducing waste. A value stream requires you to complete all planning in advance of a project. If something isn’t to the benefit of the owner, it should be removed.

Continuous Workflow

Like a manufacturing line, project sites consist of stages that must be applied in sequence to maintain efficiency. You wouldn’t want a roofer to be stalled while waiting on materials or another subcontractor to complete their portion of a job. Ensuring that project phases occur incrementally requires that all parties remain on the same page regarding updates and concerns.

These are just a few of the principles of lean construction. We’ll be going over the remaining principles in part three and concluding our series in part four with a discussion of the many benefits of lean construction.

If you would like to speak with one of our Florida construction attorneys, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.