Enhancement of Quality Management Through Lean in Sri Lankan Construction Industry

Abstract

Quality management remains a critical concern in the construction industry of developing countries, where inefficiencies, rework, and inconsistencies in quality practices negatively impact project outcomes. Although lean construction features prominently in the global literature, the rigorous integration of lean principles into quality management frameworks remains underexplored. While lean construction is widely recognised for enhancing process efficiency and value delivery, its integration with quality management, particularly through structured frameworks, has received limited attention in the Sri Lankan context. This study addresses this gap by investigating how lean can be applied to enhance quality management in Sri Lankan construction organisations. Guided by a pragmatic research philosophy, this study employed the Delphi technique involving experts with expertise in lean construction and quality management. Data was analysed using NVivo through directed content analysis. The study identified lean-related quality process areas and performance indicators based on established literature and expert judgement. The validated indicators were organised into four core process areas: continuous improvement, benchmarking, standardisation, and error detection and prevention. A total of 22 performance indicators corresponding to these areas were confirmed through expert consensus. The findings show strong alignment with established lean concepts such as Kaizen, the Plan Do Check Act cycle, standard work, and quality at source. The results also reflect local priorities such as proactive error management and regulatory alignment, emphasising the need for contextual adaptation. The study extends lean quality theory to a new geographic setting, offers a practical framework for Sri Lankan construction organisations, demonstrates the methodological value of the Delphi approach in data-limited contexts, and supports societal goals by promoting more reliable and accountable construction practices. These contributions advance understanding and implementation of lean-based quality management in emerging construction sectors.