MDM as a Process Mapping Tool in Lean Construction
DSM 2010: Proceedings of the 12th International DSM Conference, Cambridge, UK, 22.-23.07.2010
Year: 2010
Editor: Wynn, D.C.; Kreimeyer, M.; Eben, K.; Maurer, M.; Lindemann, U.; Clarkson, P.J.
Author: Furtmeier, F.; Graebsch, M.; Elezi, F.; Tommelein, I.D.; Lindemann, U.
Section: Iteration Management
Page(s): 153-166
Abstract
Lean thinking strives for the elimination of waste at any point in a product’s progress from development to production to delivery. Lean construction applies the principles of lean thinking, such as value and waste, to the delivery process (design and construction) to the AEC (Architecture Engineering Construction) industry. Since construction is essentially an extensive product development process, lean construction shifts from a production view to an integrated view on all phases of the delivery process. Thus, construction processes have to be designed and planned in detail to enable construction without delays. This requires that processes are designed correctly in the first place, instead of examined and modified during execution. A significant challenge is that processes are often branched and complex. In order to establish a realistic picture of the process, process mapping tools need to capture the interconnectedness of a process’ steps.
This paper discusses the topic of mapping processes in lean construction and illustrates the application of the Multi-Domain Matrix (MDM) as a process mapping tool using the example of a plumbing installation process design. The objective of the MDM application is to facilitate process mapping through deduction of dependencies and to provide conclusions for future state map generation based on analysis of the process’ underlying structure.
Keywords: AEC Industry, Lean ConStruction, MDM, Process Mapping