Production cell implementation in the facade execution: a construction case study

Abstract

The construction industry is an environment with much waste. An alternative that could minimize this problem is Lean Thinking, as it focuses on eliminating waste. A widely used tool in lean manufacturing is the production cell, whose main goal is to keep production in continuo flow. In the construction context, the applications of this tool are still incipient, arousing the interest to be further investigated. The aim of this study is to analyze how a production cell was applied in a facade service execution and evaluate this result. We used the case study method in a contractor with experience in facades execution. We collected qualitative data (in situ observations and interviews with employees) and quantitative (time and cost data supplied by the contractor). After the data were analyzed (before and after cell implementation) Through analysis and literature review we decided to follow those steps: a) methods b) materials c) people d) equipments and machines. The results point out improvement in the employee relationship with the administration, increased employee commitment, cost savings with direct labor and increase the pay received by employees. This paper contributes to expanding the use of this tool (production cell) in the construction and shows that through this application, many benefits can be achieved.