Importance of Standard Operating Procedure Documents and Visualization to Implement Lean Construction

Yoshitaka Nakagawa¹

Abstract

In a previous paper (Nakagawa 2004), the author emphasized that standard operating procedure documents (SOPD) are important for implementing lean construction. This paper explains the need for SOPD, the conditions required of SOPD, and the factors that hamper the introduction of standard operating procedures at construction sites. The paper then explains how visualization is effective for introducing standard operating procedures at construction sites and achieving objectives in scheduling, quality, costs, and safety. Specifically, visualization in construction sites is discussed by considering the difference between manufacturing factories and construction sites. Finally, the paper explains visualization procedures, suggests that a PDCA circle using visualization and SOPD are essential for motivating kaizen (improvement). It also suggests that a strong commitment by top management is required to prevent stereotyped work.

Keywords

Toyota Production System, Standard operating procedures document, Visualization, PDCA, Kaizen

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Reference

Nakagawa, Y. 2005. Importance of Standard Operating Procedure Documents and Visualization to Implement Lean Construction, 13th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction , 207-215. doi.org/

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