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Cheng, E W L, Li, H, Shen, L Y and Fong, P S W (2002) Ranking of construction information for various functions of the general contractors: a preliminary study. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 181–91.

Chew, A T W and Ling, F Y Y (2002) Increasing Singapore's construction productivity through construction process re-engineering. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 123–45.

Formoso, C T, Santos, A D and Powell, J A (2002) An exploratory study on the applicability of process transparency in construction sites. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 35–54.

Green, S D (2002) The human resource management implications of lean construction: critical perspectives and conceptual chasms. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 147–65.

Kim, Y-W and Ballard, G (2002) Earned value method and customer earned value. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 55–66.

Koskela, L, Huovila, P and Leinonene, J (2002) Design management in building construction: From theory to practice. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 1–16.

Miles, R S and Ballard, G (2002) Problems in the interface between mechanical design and construction: A research proposal. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 83–95.

Miller, C J M, Packham, G A and Thomas, B C (2002) Harmonization between main contractors and subcontractors: a prerequisite for lean construction?. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 67–82.

  • Type: Journal Article
  • Keywords: subcontracting; small firms; harmonization; new processes; transaction costs; lean construction
  • ISBN/ISSN: 1609-9451
  • URL: http://www.worldscinet.com/jcr/03/0301/S1609945102000059.html
  • Abstract:
    It is maintained that processes such as lean construction can reduce costs within the construction process. These costs often arise due to a lack of harmonization between contracting parties. Historically, the relationship between contractors and subcontractors has been transactional in nature, with both parties seeking to secure value added at minimal cost. Despite this fact, evidence suggests that mutual cooperation that can supersede a traditional cost led approach offers a new hope for prosperity in the construction industry. This paper provides preliminary case study research, highlighting that the competent implementation of lean construction should include the full integration of the small subcontracting firm. Thus, it is argued that harmonization between contractors and subcontractors is a prerequisite for lean construction. The paper finally posits that new practices will continue to have only a limited appeal to small subcontracting firms if they continue to facilitate contractor opportunism instead of reducing the transaction costs of all parties.

Seydel, A, Wilson, O D and Skitmore, M R (2002) Financial evaluation of waste management methods: a case study. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 167–79.

Singh, A (2002) Lean engineering for mass housing - design, manufacture and site erection. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 97–122.

Whelton, M G and Ballard, G (2002) Decriptive design study: a building facility renewal planning study. Journal of Construction Research, 3(01), 17–33.