33rd Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 33) - Osaka and Kyoto, Japan - 2025

https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0226

Harmonizing Construction Flow: Integrating Takt Planning, Workspace Management, and Lookahead Strategies

Eyob T. Mengiste1 & Borja Garcia de Soto2

1Instructor, Civil and Urban Engineering Program, Researcher, S.M.A.R.T Construction Research Group, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0002-4841-7476
2Associate Professor, Civil and Urban Engineering Program, Director, S.M.A.R.T Construction Research Group, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0002-9613-8105

Abstract

This paper explores an approach that integrates takt planning with real-time workspace utilization metrics to enhance its effectiveness and support improved lookahead planning. The proposed workflow leverages automation and innovative metrics to represent dynamic workspace conditions, incorporating non-permanent elements such as scaffolding, material storage, and temporary clutter, factors often overlooked but critical to construction performance. These metrics facilitate the definition of takt zones, aligning work allocation with spatial availability. By correlating the spatial positioning of these elements with worker productivity derived from prior site performance data, the study develops a framework for mapping takt zones. This framework enables planners to create lookahead plans that strategically allocate activities within zones, optimizing productivity. The methodology is validated through a sample project, demonstrating its effectiveness in structuring workflows and providing actionable insights for efficient resource allocation. The findings highlight the synergy between takt planning, lookahead planning, and digitization, underscoring the value of integrating workspace and productivity data into workflow optimization. This research contributes a practical, data-driven approach to improving construction planning.

Keywords

Lean construction, Construction digitization, Lookahead, Takt planning, Workspace utilization

Files


Full Text
 

Reference

Download: BibTeX | RIS Format

Reference in APA 7th edition format:

Mengiste, E. T. & Garcia de Soto, B.. (2025). Harmonizing Construction Flow: Integrating Takt Planning, Workspace Management, and Lookahead Strategies. In Seppänen, O., Koskela, L., & Murata , K. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 33rd Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 33) (pp. 856–868). https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0226

Shortened reference for use in IGLC papers:

Mengiste, E. T. & Garcia de Soto, B.. (2025). Harmonizing Construction Flow: Integrating Takt Planning, Workspace Management, and Lookahead Strategies. IGLC33. https://doi.org/10.24928/2025/0226

 

Founded in 1993, the IGLC is an international network of researchers from practice and academia in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) who feel that the practice, education, and research of the AEC industry have to be radically renewed in order to respond to the global challenges ahead.

2015 © All Rights Reserved.