A Framework for Enhancing the Construction Process Efficiency in the Ethiopian Building Construction industry through the application of the Last Planner System: A Case of Ethiopian Construction Works Corporation

Abstract

The building construction industry is a crucial sector for the Ethiopian economy as it contributes to national development through its impact on GDP, backward linkages to other industrial sectors, direct demand for labor, and contribution to national capital formation. However, Ethiopian construction project management faces numerous challenges due to its traditional project management approaches. These approaches are often inadequate when dealing with the dynamic and complex construction projects in the region. As a result, these challenges can adversely affect project delivery, productivity, and overall performance during the construction process due to their complexity and uncertainty. Therefore, it is essential to explore new alternatives that can bring creative improvements to the traditional production system. The Last Planner System is a well-known Lean Construction method that focuses on improving efficiency in the construction process. It aims to reduce delays and waste by promoting collaboration and commitment. This system provides a way to manage and monitor planning efficiency in construction effectively. Therefore, this study aims to address the barriers to implementing the Last Planner system and create a framework for its successful implementation. The research methodology involves data collection through questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaires were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 to compute Cronbach Alpha and descriptive statistics. The study results indicate a positive readiness for implementing the Last Planner System in the Ethiopian building construction industry, with identified barriers prioritized for mitigation. The developed framework demonstrates the potential for improving construction process efficiency and overcoming industry-specific challenges. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the field of construction engineering and management in Ethiopia, offering a structured approach to enhancing efficiency and optimizing project outcomes by applying the Last Planner System. It is recommended that the government recognizes the advantages of implementing the LPS and supports the Ethiopian building construction industry in doing so. Additionally, the established framework should be implemented in actual building construction projects and assessed to improve the efficiency of the construction process in the Ethiopian building construction sector.