Visual Management in industrial construction: A case study

Abstract

Visual Management (VM) is a distinctive communication strategy that is frequently observed at lean work settings to varying degrees. It relies on the effectiveness of visual communication and catchy visual systems to create visual communication for different managerial purposes. VM in construction has generally been discussed within a building construction context to date. This paper investigates the VM realisation means (visual tools) and attributes in the construction process of a very large industrial facility, which mainly involves mechanical and electrical construction works. A VM research on the construction site of an industrial facility will help address a gap in the field and extend the understanding of the VM applications in a different construction context other than the building construction/renovation. The research question of how VM is realized in the industrial construction context was investigated through the case study research method. One of the biggest subcontractors of a very large gas-processing facility was studied in terms of their VM approach and applications. Interviews, site observation and photographic documentation are the main data collection methods. New VM application opportunities in pipe spool fabrication and crane management were identified. Some industrial construction specific visual systems, VM application attributes for industrial constructions, managerial insights and future application directions were also captured and presented.