Application of Lean Construction: a multilevel and multidimensional perspective

This paper addresses the gap between Lean Construction’s (LC) widely promoted potential and its frequently observed Lean light application in practice. Building on insights from a recent study on the status quo of LC in Germany, we developed a multilevel and multidimensional model that captures where LC is applied, how it is applied, and how corresponding effects emerge. The model distinguishes five hierarchical system levels, ranging from the industry level (L5) to the level of individual operational practitioners (L1) and three application dimensions: length (D1; duration), breadth (D2; quantity), and depth (D3; quality). The effect of LC application is thereby linked to the application volume (V), a combined configuration of the three application dimensions, highlighting that a substantial effect is unlikely unless the approach is applied with sufficient duration, quantity, and quality. For each level and dimension, we propose evaluation scales to support an initial qualitative self-assessment. The model was refined iteratively and subjected to expert-based theoretical and practical validation through 10 interviews and illustrative cases for each level. By providing a common understanding and an evaluative structure across industry levels and application dimensions, the model aims to support both research and practice in moving beyond Lean light applications.