Design and Deliver using Lean Construction: The Basics with Sneha Kumari

Published Jun 13, 2023. By Audree Grubesic. Reading time: 3 min.

Overview

Sneha Kumari starts a multi-part series on Lean methods for offsite construction business models. The article explains the basics of Lean and how it can help unblock operational efficiencies.

What Lean is

Lean is a business philosophy and organizational culture focused on eliminating waste, improving operations, and delivering customer value. It emphasizes respect for people and continuous improvement.

Lean is not:

• Working harder.
• Only cost-cutting.
• Only 5S or Kaizen.
• Only automation, digital tools, or ERPs.
• Copying another company's Lean practices.

Background

Lean originated as Toyota's response to intense market competition. It is now used across many industries, including architecture, engineering, and construction, especially where labor shortages create pressure to improve reliability and value.

Lean principles

• Define value: Identify what customers truly value through interviews, surveys, and other qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Eliminate waste: Map current operations, distinguish value-adding from non-value-adding work, and remove unnecessary activities.
• Standardize work: Create smooth flow, break down steps, level workload, reconfigure production processes, and support cross-functional collaboration.
• Continuous improvement: Focus on progress over perfection and build a learning organization that keeps improving processes.

Benefits of Lean construction

• Lower costs through reduced material usage and process waste.
• Shorter construction timelines through better planning.
• Fewer accidents and a safer working environment.
• More reliable schedules and more predictable delivery.
• Improved communication, streamlined processes, and higher efficiency.
• Reduced workforce requirements and less stress for workers and management.
• Higher productivity, stronger profits, and better customer satisfaction.
• Greater accountability, job satisfaction, and commitment to performance.

Tools mentioned

• 5S
• Gemba Walks
• A3
• Last Planner system (Pull system)

About Sneha Kumari

Sneha Kumari is a Supply Chain Operations leader with 12+ years of experience. Her background includes Industrial Manufacturing, Automotive, Oil and Gas, Prefabrication manufacturing, and Retail. She is Lean Six Sigma certified and has led Quality, Supply chain, and Operational activities for a decade.

She was recognized by McKinsey and Co. as one of the few Operations Women Leaders and by SourceDay as one of the Top 50 women to follow in ERP. She also supports circular economy and ESG initiatives.

Contact

• Phone: 412-378-8366
• Email: snehak@etherzen.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/snehakumari/
• Website: https://www.etherzen.com/consulting