Conceptual framework for lean construction ambidexterity in project-based organizations
Abstract
Lean construction (LC) is widely used to eliminate waste in the construction industry. However, few studies have focussed on LC capabilities. In the absence of a theoretical foundation, the equal treatment of inherent rigidity and flexibility has received little attention. This critical literature review answered the following research questions: What is the current understanding of the two characteristics of LC? Is there a theoretical explanation for their relationship? How can LC capabilities be realized in a project-based organization? The results revealed the lack of a clear definition of LC capabilities. The study posits that LC capabilities involve ambidexterity. Ambidexterity embodies the LC philosophy, principles, and methods, with a focus on resolving the paradoxical tensions in LC projects. Ambidexterity was found to be a two-dimensional paradox comprising exploitative and exploratory capabilities. It emphasizes the achievement of a balance between the two capabilities. The proposed model indicates that LC project-based organizations provide the ideal context for the development of ambidexterity. This study uses a paradoxical lens to introduce the notion of LC capabilities as ambidexterity. This research contributes to the current knowledge and future applications of organizational ambidexterity theory to LC capability development. In addition, it will enable practitioners to understand and manage the paradoxical tensions in LC projects. The proposed framework can guide the creation of an ideal LC project-organization environment.Citation
Fang, Y., Daniel, E.I. and Li, S. (2021) Conceptual framework for lean construction ambidexterity in project-based organizations. Construction Management and Economics, 39(10), pp.824-838. DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516Publisher
RoutledgeJournal
Construction Management and EconomicsAdditional Links
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516Type
Journal articleLanguage
enDescription
This is an accepted manuscript of an article published by Routledge in Construction Management and Economics on 28/09/2021, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516 The accepted version of the publication may differ from the final published version.ISSN
0144-6193EISSN
1466-433XSponsors
This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Number: 71571130).ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516
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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/