Lean Construction Techniques for Transforming Nigeria Project Delivery Process - A Case Study Report

Background/Objective: Practitioners in Nigerian construction industry continues to search for ways of improving productivity in its project delivery process. In this research, we share our experiences on lean construction implementation via case study site, to increase knowledge of construction practitioners on improving productivity using lean construction approach. Thus, the aim of this study is to present a case where lean construction technique was adopted and to highlight on the benefits realised in the implantation process. Methodology: Action research was adopted in a case study of 20 housing units using lean construction principles in Federal University Gashua of Yobe state Nigeria. Empirical qualitative data were collected through participatory observation and document studies in the project delivery. A comparative analysis between lean concept project and traditional concept were made to evaluate the potentials of lean construction concept towards improving productivity. Findings: Lean construction tools are used to optimize value in construction sites by extending planning to downstream to achieve reliable work flow. It makes the project participants to employ their commitment for success of the project in the project planning. Lean construction tools were adopted in design and management of production system of some housing units. The result reveals that, the project realised a more stable work flow and emergency requests of resources drastically reduced. And the project was completed six weeks in advance to its real schedule and recorded 17.24% increase in productivity. This makes the client to use the structure quicker than expected time. Application/Improvements: After assessing the benefits recorded, the client decides to engage in lean practice in its future projects. The result will contribute to literature on lean project management and will be used by construction practitioners.Keywords: Lean Concept, Production System Design, Project Delivery Process, Reliable Work Flow