Managing complexity in Lean construction design - Using the MDM methodology to create organizational modularity

Michael Krinner, Fatos Elezi, Iris D. Tommelein, Udo Lindemann

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

This research reports on the application in the Architecture-Engineering- Construction (AEC) industry of the Multiple-Domain Matrix (MDM) methodology, originally established for product development processes. AEC project delivery features significant organizational complexity. Our use of the MDM methodology aims at characterizing and managing such complexity while following the Lean Construction philosophy. Lean Construction refers to using lean thinking principles that stem from the Toyota Production System (TPS) and new ones that address challenges particularly prominent in the AEC industry. We conducted a case study in the Design Phase of a healthcare facility's delivery to examine applicability of the methodology. We linked those involved in the project to the processes they followed to prepare a design for review by the building permitting agency. Our MDM analysis of the organizational interactions resulted in identifying highly correlated groups of individuals from different companies. This result encourages further use of MDMs to manage AEC Design.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInvest on Visualization - Proceedings of the 13th International DSM Conference
Pages377-390
Number of pages14
StatePublished - 2011
Event13th International Dependency and Structure Modelling Conference, DSM'11 - Cambridge, MA, United States
Duration: 14 Sep 201115 Sep 2011

Publication series

NameInvest on Visualization - Proceedings of the 13th International DSM Conference

Conference

Conference13th International Dependency and Structure Modelling Conference, DSM'11
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityCambridge, MA
Period14/09/1115/09/11

Keywords

  • AEC Industry
  • Complexity
  • Design
  • Design Structure Matrix
  • Lean construction
  • Modularity
  • Multiple-Domain Matrix
  • Project delivery
  • Project organization

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Managing complexity in Lean construction design - Using the MDM methodology to create organizational modularity'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this