Terrain Scanning Methodology for Construction Supply Chains

R. Barker1, S.M. Hong-Minh2 & M.M. Naim3

1Research Associate, Logistics Systems Dynamics Group, Department of Maritime Studies and International Transport, Cardiff University, P.O. Box 907, Cardiff, CF1 3YP., Tel: (44) 1222 876312, Fax: (44) 1222 874301, [email protected]
2Research Associate, Logistics Systems Dynamics Group, Department of Maritime Studies and International Transport, Cardiff University, P.O. Box 907, Cardiff, CF1 3YP., Tel: (44) 1222 874271, Fax: (44) 1222 874301, [email protected]
3Reader, Logistics Systems Dynamics Group, Department of Maritime Studies and International Transport, Cardiff University, P.O. Box 907, Cardiff, CF1 3YP., Tel: (44) 1222 874637, Fax: (44) 1222 874301, [email protected]

Abstract

The paper defines a Terrain Scanning Methodology (TSM) for undertaking a health check of individual businesses and whole supply chains in the construction industry. Building on previous research in a variety of market sectors the TSM aims to minimise resources required in undertaking a diagnostic while still allowing a high degree of scope. The TSM takes into account the constituent flow on the supply chain, the issues governing supply chain change and the level of business process detail. An application of the TSM in a house building supply chain is given and a critical analysis of the TSM undertaken. The paper concludes that while the TSM has its limitations as a stand alone exercise it can be seen as a vital first step for companies to understand and document their supply chains before embarking on a long term supply chain engineering program.

Keywords

Supply chain, business process analysis, process mapping, supply chain engineering, house building

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Reference

Barker, R. , Hong-Minh, S. & Naim, M. 1999. Terrain Scanning Methodology for Construction Supply Chains, 7th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction , 195-206. doi.org/

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