What is the Kanban method and why use it in construction?

May 8, 2024
5 min
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The Kanban method is an agile project management approach that has gained popularity in many sectors, including construction.

‍Originating fromthe Japanese automotive industry, Kanban is based on "just-in-time" production principles and workflow visualization.

Kanban method principles

The Kanban method is an ideal tool for project managers. It is an agile method that enables each project to be closely monitored. A Kanban board is based on four key principles:

1. Visualize the workflow: Tasks are represented on a Kanban board divided into columns (to do, in progress, completed) to give an overview of the process.

2. Limit work in progress: A limit is set on the number of tasks that can be running simultaneously, to avoid overload.

3. Managing the flow: Identifying and resolving bottlenecks helps optimize the flow of work.

4. Continuous improvement: The team is committed to optimization and efficiency, regularly adjusting the process.

The typical context of construction sites is an ideal setting for the application of this system. The Kanban board adapts perfectly to the specificities of construction activities, making the management of each project more efficient.

Why use a Kanban board in construction?

The Kanban method is particularly well suited to construction projects, which are often characterized by complex, interdependent work processes. It's a methodology that's well suited to this type of business, allowing you to keep track of every stage of a project.

Task and workload management

The Kanban board enables construction teams to clearly visualize the tasks to be carried out, those in progress and those completed. This makes it easier to distribute the workload evenly between the various trades. With a digital version, you can access your task board from your smartphone or computer. So, whether you're on the job site or in the office, you have access to all planned activities just by opening the tables associated with each job.

Coordination between teams

Thanks to the transparency offered by the Kanban board, coordination between different teams (masons, electricians, plumbers, etc.) is greatly improved. Each team member can see the progress of the others' tasks and adapt accordingly. Better communication means not only better performance in the field, but also a better general atmosphere within the company. You'll improve employee retention by offering them a working environment where misunderstandings and misunderstandings are reduced to zero.

Digital version of Kanban

Many digital tools, such as Civalgo, offer virtual Kanban boards. This enables remote management of each project, with real-time access to information for all stakeholders. You can then create a customized kanban board for all your projects, while keeping precise track of the tasks in progress and the people involved. Each stage of your project is visible in just a few clicks on the online tool's dashboard. Here's an example of a kanban board to help you visualize what it looks like in practice:

Illustration of a digital version of a Kanban board

5 good reasons to use the Kanban board in construction

The Kanban system brings many benefits to construction companies . Thanks to its ability to visualize workflow, limit your team's workload and optimize coordination, Kanban can significantly improve productivity and efficiency on construction sites. This agile system is particularly well suited to the challenges of the construction industry, characterized by complex processes and frequent changes.

1. Improving productivity

One of the advantages of the Kanban method is that it provides greater visibility of the entire work process. This makes it easier to identify problems such as materials management and overload zones, and to take the necessary steps to resolve them. By optimizing the workflow, the Kanban method contributes to a significant improvement in your employees' productivity.

2. Better coordination between teams

The Kanban board, accessible to all those involved, provides transparency on the progress of each person's tasks. This increased visibility greatly facilitates coordination between different team members (masons, electricians, plumbers, etc.) on construction sites. Everyone can adapt to the progress of other trades. The result is greater efficiency and improved collaboration.

3. Shorter lead times

Thanks to better workflow management and enhanced coordination between teams, the use of the Kanban method reduces delivery times. Tasks are carried out more smoothly, and delays are avoided. Thanks to the implementation of the Kanban system, the various stages of the project are carried out smoothly.

4. Flexibility to adapt to frequent changes

Construction sites are often subject to numerous changes and unforeseen events. The Kanban method, with its agile approach, makes it easier for teams to adapt to these changes. The visual display board makes it easy to reassign tasks and reorganize work according to new constraints.

5. Greater team involvement

The transparency offered by the Kanban board, and the continuous improvement approach that accompanies it, encourage greater team involvement. Employees feel more responsible and involved in optimizing processes, which contributes to better overall performance.

In conclusion, the Kanban method is particularly well suited to the challenges of the construction industry. Its visual charts enable companies to optimize their processes, better coordinate their teams and deliver their projects on time.

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