Case Study on Value Stream Mapping for Precast Hollow Core Slab

The construction sector in India is gradually undergoing critical changes in several aspects and transcending for the better. One of the significant changes in the sector is using precast technology and ‘offsite’ manufacturing techniques to enhance the speed of construction and optimize process methodology to reap added benefits apart from the traditional onsite means of construction. Despite its advantages, this method can be improved further by conducting proactive research. One of the tools which can be used widely to improve the process is the use of ‘value stream mapping’, a prominent Lean construction tool. Value stream mapping (VSM) as a management tool helps evaluate waste within the workflow, which can eventually identify several improvements to the process. This adaptation is possible through appropriate process mapping. This study aims to map the process of the construction system covering precasting of hollow core slabs. The case study sites were visited to record activity cycles. The study’s primary objective is to map all relevant activities and further propose improvements to the process. Two maps were obtained for each activity, namely the current state—VSM and future state VSM, a map of the current state with improvements. This study demonstrated that it is possible to adapt the VSM in construction and highlights some of its key benefits.