5S: From Lean Manufacturing to Lean Construction

The transition from Lean Manufacturing (industry) to Lean Construction (construction) in Italy involves adapting a serial and repetitive production system to a unique, dynamic, and highly fragmented construction context. The main challenges lie in organizational culture, supply chain management, and technological adaptation. Structural and managerial challenges arise when moving from the assembly line to the construction site, where Lean Manufacturing operates in stable environments. In contrast, Lean Construction must contend with variable weather conditions, terrain, and the constant movement of work crews, coupled with a highly fragmented supply chain: in Italy, the construction sector relies heavily on subcontractors and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Synchronizing Just-in-Time (JIT) principles requires aligning multiple independent companies that have historically worked in isolation. How do we begin to address resistance to change and traditional culture, given that a strong cultural inertia is deeply rooted in Italian construction firms? Can we break with the traditional “that’s how it’s always been done” paradigm and promote a culture of continuous improvement—a shift that requires overcoming strong egos and mistrust?