Effects of Last Planner System Practices on Social Networks and the Performance of Construction Projects
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 144, Issue 3
Abstract
Management practices of lean production within the last planner system (LPS) have enabled significant improvements in project performance worldwide. These improvements are, in part, attributed to practices that strengthen social networks within projects and enhance effective communication. However, the relationships by which LPS management practices and organizational characteristics impact project performance are not well known and require in-depth investigation. To obtain a better understanding of these relationships, analyzed data was collected from nine construction projects from two Chilean construction companies. Correlation analysis was applied to the degree of implementation of LPS practices, social networks metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Significant relationships were found among these three variables. It was also found that a high implementation level of LPS practices is usually related to improved project performance, although it is not always associated with improved network metrics. The results provide insights into project performance relationships with the organization and LPS practices that should lead to improve the managerial decision-making process regarding organizational and management practices for better project performance. The role of social network properties on project performance requires further research because optimal metrics have not been established yet.
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Data Availability Statement
All data generated or analyzed during the study are included in the published paper. Information about the Journal’s data sharing policy can be found here: http://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/%28ASCE%29CO.1943-7862.0001263.
Acknowledgments
We thank the companies that provided access for data collection for this study.
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Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 144 • Issue 3 • March 2018
Copyright
©2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 3, 2017
Accepted: Sep 7, 2017
Published online: Dec 28, 2017
Published in print: Mar 1, 2018
Discussion open until: May 28, 2018
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