Identifying and Managing Critical Waste Factors for Lean Construction Projects

This study highlights the findings of an empirical study to investigate critical waste factors (CWFs) affecting the performance of construction projects. Twenty-four CWFs were identified through an extensive literature review and consolidated by semi-structured interviews with construction experts. A structured questionnaire was designed and completed by 330 participants from public and private projects in Morocco. The statistical analysis indicated that the top five ranked factors are Activity Start Delays, Rework, Unused Employee Creativity, Long Approval Process, and Waiting Due to Work Not Completed by Others. Factor analysis was conducted and indicates the underlying factors for the 24 CWFs are inefficient site management, improper planning and poor communication, rework and poor quality, and human-related factors. The findings of this study provide guidance to practicing engineering managers to develop appropriate strategies to effectively manage CWFs for lean construction projects through waste reduction.