A framework for development of Lean Integrated Project Delivery Model for infrastructure road projects

Lean construction extends from the objectives of lean production system to maximize value, minimize waste and also to reduce resource variability. Lean project delivery system emerged about a decade ago from theoretical and practical investigations, and is in process of on-going development through experimentation. Traditional project delivery systems include construction management at risk, design – build, design – bid – build models. Due to increasing complexity of highway projects, there is an increased requirement for optimized solutions and multidisciplinary teams. Integrated project delivery systems can provide pragmatic solutions to the complex project problems. It seeks to improve project outcomes through a collaborative approach of aligning the incentives and goals of the project teams through shared risk and reward, early involvement of all parties, and a multiparty agreement. This paper is an attempt to develop a framework for integrated lean project delivery model for national highway projects in Gujarat, India. The process indicators and control variables were identified through a primary data questionnaire survey responded by 35 participants associated with national highway projects across Gujarat. Evaluation of process indicators and control variables was carried out by statistical methods and finally an evaluation matrix was developed. Dependent variables considered for this study would include schedule metrics, cost metrics, quality metrics and safety metrics. The evaluation matrix would interpret underlying relationships amongst the process indicators and dependent variables and also amongst control variables and dependent variables. This would act as a decision making support tool for project teams to facilitate optimum lean integrated project delivery processes.