Thesis

A total lean construction framework

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Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2025
Thesis identifier
  • T17468
Person Identifier (Local)
  • 201956689
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Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • Construction projects are often complex and require robust management strategies to address persistent challenges such as cost overruns, schedule delays, quality shortcomings, and sustainability issues. Despite the availability of various project management frameworks, there remains a critical need for a comprehensive, scalable approach that integrates efficiency with sustainability and stakeholder value across the entire project lifecycle. This research introduces the novel Total Lean Construction (TLC) Framework, which integrates Lean Construction principles with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work 2020. The TLC Framework addresses five key objectives: (1) minimising waste, (2) reducing costs, (3) avoiding time overruns, (4) promoting sustainability, and (5) enhancing stakeholder satisfaction through value-adding activities. This dual integration of lean methodologies with a widely adopted architectural project delivery model is the first of its kind and constitutes a significant contribution to the current construction management literature. Data were collected through a comprehensive literature review, semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, and a case study analysis of the Crossrail project. A combination of inductive and deductive thematic analysis was employed to interpret qualitative data. Findings confirm the TLC Framework’s practical relevance in improving time, cost, and sustainability performance while encouraging collaborative working. By embedding lean strategies into the RIBA Plan of Work 2020 at every stage from strategic definition to post-occupancy the TLC Framework provides a structured, holistic roadmap for enhancing construction project delivery. The study underscores the importance of early stakeholder engagement, continuous improvement, and the elimination of non-value-adding activities. The novelty of this research lies in its practical and theoretical integration of Lean Construction principles into a universally recognised project management structure, offering new insight and practical tools for achieving more sustainable, efficient, and value-driven outcomes. Keywords: Total Lean Construction (TLC) Framework, Lean Construction, RIBA Plan of Work (PoW) 2020, Project Management, Sustainability, Value-adding Activities.
Advisor / supervisor
  • Chen, Zhen, 1967-
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