Construction Leaders Podcast: Building Efficiency and Trust Through Lean Construction
Episode: Building Efficiency and Trust Through Lean Construction
Release Date: November 1, 2024
Host: Nick Soto
Guests:
- Tammy McConaughey – Director of Education and Certification, Lean Construction Institute (LCI)
- Katie Wells – Vice President of Project Delivery, Brassfield and Gorey; Board Member, LCI
- Christopher Vine – Project Superintendent, Hensel Phelps; LCI Certified Practitioner
- John Zakara – Vice President, Integrated Facilities Solutions; Chicago Community of Practice, LCI
- Carly Trout – Moderator and Panelist
Introduction to Lean Construction
Nick Soto opens the episode by setting the stage for a deep dive into lean construction, a philosophy aimed at maximizing value while minimizing waste in construction projects. He emphasizes the goal of uncovering how lean practices can lead to higher efficiency, better quality, and improved project outcomes.
“Lean construction, a philosophy that focuses on maximizing value while minimizing waste,” [00:03] Nick Soto.
Guest Introductions
Tammy McConaughey welcomes listeners and introduces her esteemed colleagues, highlighting their roles and contributions to lean construction.
“We have several guests on our show today...” [01:07] Tammy McConaughey.
Among the guests:
- Katie Wells brings her extensive experience in project delivery and her role on LCI’s board.
- Christopher Vine shares his recent achievement as an LCI Certified Practitioner.
- John Zakara highlights his support within the Chicago Community of Practice.
Understanding Lean Construction According to LCI
Tammy McConaughey provides an overview of her journey with lean construction and the mission of LCI.
“Lean Construction is the best way to build. And LCI really brings that together for architects, engineers, contractors, trade partners, consultants, owners...” [02:05] Tammy McConaughey.
Defining Lean and Its Core Principles
Katie Wells prompts Christopher Vine to define what lean construction means through the lens of LCI.
Christopher Vine emphasizes that lean construction is about eliminating waste and breaking down industry silos to foster true collaboration and build strong relationships.
“It is truly about breaking down the silos of our industry and promoting true collaboration...” [03:35] Christopher Vine.
Misconceptions About Lean Construction
Katie Wells raises the topic of common misconceptions surrounding lean construction, inviting John Zakara to clarify what lean is not.
John Zakara dispels myths by asserting that lean isn’t about adding extra processes but is grounded in continuous improvement and respect for people.
“Lean is not a bunch of extra stuff. The foundational principles of continuous improvement and respect for people encapsulates everything...” [04:49] John Zakara.
Collaboration and Culture in Lean Construction
The conversation shifts to the importance of collaboration and cultivating a positive culture on construction sites.
Carly Trout highlights that a strong, collaborative culture leads to better project outcomes.
“If you have a great culture, I know I'm going to get a great schedule outcome and a great budget outcome.” [06:53] Carly Trout.
Christopher Vine shares a practical example of fostering relationships to enhance team cohesion.
“The superintendent... fires up the grill and does baked potatoes and barbecue... to build those relationships.” [07:51] Christopher Vine.
Implementing Lean Construction: Lessons Learned
Nick Soto seeks insights on lessons learned from implementing lean practices.
John Zakara recounts challenges in fostering trust and moving away from traditional command-and-control approaches.
“You have to learn to ask the questions. We talked about conversation and communication...” [12:26] John Zakara.
Tammy McConaughey echoes the significance of understanding true value beyond just being on time and under budget.
“The true value is how those conditions of satisfaction around that... What does success look like for each team member?” [15:43] Tammy McConaughey.
Overcoming Challenges in Lean Implementation
Katie Wells and Christopher Vine discuss the barriers to adopting lean practices, primarily the fear of change and the need for a mindset shift.
Christopher Vine emphasizes the importance of team alignment and addressing fears to gain buy-in.
“Fundamentally, at least what I've seen it is down to just that fear of change.” [17:49] Christopher Vine.
John Zakara underscores the necessity for leaders to be vulnerable and open to others' expertise.
“But the more you do it... it makes us all better builders and makes our clients happier.” [19:06] John Zakara.
Future Trends and Innovations in Lean Construction
Looking ahead, the panel discusses how lean construction is evolving and what trends to anticipate.
John Zakara warns against regression and highlights the ongoing need for consistent lean practices to address workforce shortages and enhance industry appeal.
“We have a shortage of half a million craft personnel nationwide... enjoy being here.” [22:04] John Zakara.
Resources and Support from LCI
Tammy McConaughey and Christopher Vine highlight the myriad resources LCI offers to support both newcomers and seasoned professionals in lean construction.
Tammy McConaughey details LCI’s membership benefits, including access to educational events like Congress and Design Forum.
“Congress is our biggest conference of the year... a week of bringing professionals together...” [25:02] Tammy McConaughey.
Christopher Vine shares personal experiences of the community and networking opportunities through LCI.
“The community and network... my two favorite events are Congress and Design Forum.” [26:55] Christopher Vine.
John Zakara reinforces the value of local communities of practice and the extensive resources available on LCI’s website.
“The networking opportunities to be local communities... they'll help you on your journey and just mentor you along the way.” [28:14] John Zakara.
Tammy McConaughey also promotes LCI’s certification programs, encouraging professionals to validate their lean expertise.
“We have the Certified Practitioner of Construction and the Certified Practitioner of Design now... proving that they have the subject matter experts.” [26:55] Tammy McConaughey.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Katie Wells wraps up the episode by thanking the guests and directing listeners to LCI’s resources for further learning and certification opportunities.
She also teases the next episode, which will focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) in construction, featuring members of CMAA's sustainability subcommittee.
“For all those, if you're interested in checking out one of the certifications that Tammy mentioned or checking out other resources on LCI's website, you can go to leanconstruction.org to learn more.” [24:20] Katie Wells.
Notable Quotes
- Nick Soto: “Lean construction, a philosophy that focuses on maximizing value while minimizing waste.” [00:03]
- John Zakara: “Lean is not a bunch of extra stuff. The foundational principles of continuous improvement and respect for people encapsulates everything...” [04:49]
- Carly Trout: “If you have a great culture, I know I'm going to get a great schedule outcome and a great budget outcome.” [06:53]
- John Zakara: “You have to learn to ask the questions. We talked about conversation and communication...” [12:26]
- Tammy McConaughey: “The true value is how those conditions of satisfaction around that... What does success look like for each team member?” [15:43]
- Christopher Vine: “Fundamentally, at least what I've seen it is down to just that fear of change.” [17:49]
- John Zakara: “But the more you do it... it makes us all better builders and makes our clients happier.” [19:06]
Key Takeaways
- Lean Construction Principles: Focus on maximizing value, minimizing waste, continuous improvement, and fostering collaboration.
- Cultural Shift: Emphasizing a positive, collaborative culture is essential for successful lean implementation.
- Overcoming Resistance: Addressing fears and encouraging open communication can help overcome resistance to change.
- Community and Networking: Engaging with organizations like LCI provides valuable resources, education, and networking opportunities.
- Future Outlook: Continued adoption of lean practices is crucial to address industry challenges such as workforce shortages and to enhance project outcomes.
Next Episode Preview
The next episode will feature members of CMAA's sustainability subcommittee discussing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and its growing importance in the construction industry.
For more information on lean construction practices, certifications, and resources, visit leanconstruction.org.