Lean construction and simulation

This paper explores the relationship between simulation and the emerging topics of lean thinking and lean construction. The ideas which have motivated the evolution of lean construction concepts are presented. The use of simulation as a means of evaluating the benefit of using lean construction techniques is discussed. Two examples of lean thinking based re-design of common construction processes are described and evaluated using construction process simulation. The paper is designed to promote consideration of the similarities between simulation based process improvement and process re-design related to the application of the principles of lean construction.