Takt was presented as a unique tool to use in project production; applying it in construction, especially where there are many unforeseen constraints, makes it difficult to achieve, especially in mega infrastructure projects; find below how we were able to execute it successfully as tools to identify problems and create smoothness into projects.
This study has outlined how Takt Planning has been applied to improve project tempo, setting the rhythm for major activities, both at micro and macro-levels. It has also highlighted the importance of adopting Takt Planning as an essential Lean tool that can be used to regain control of projects in crisis, where work waits on workers, workers are forced to wait on work, and waste impedes progress.
Takt Planning was implemented in two stages, first at the micro-level and then at the macro-level. Stage one work balanced the outflow, work-worker allocation, and distribution, and harmonized the pace of work. At stage two, Takt Planning was applied at the macro-level, streamlining the project delivery process. Implementing Takt Planning delivered an important missing part of the process, by identifying problems at both micro and macro levels; it also helped the project team to zoom into activities by creating a smooth flow of activities from beginning until completion; making it a tool that ensures project success.
The study shows that integrating TP into projects helps to identify the appropriate Lean plan for new and ongoing projects; the team called it an X-ray of the entire project. Applying Takt Planning clarifies the project scope of work in a precise way. The study considered that the adoption of Takt Planning in addition to existing Lean tools such as LPS is essential, which differs from other studies that consider Takt Planning as a separate entity. Therefore, Takt Planning must be flexible, and a proper relationship between LPS and Takt Planning must exist and be adequately maintained to ensure effectiveness and smooth project control.
The study shows in practical examples how TP can be selected as an essential tool in analyzing project difficulties, such as gaps between activities, the critical scope of work, milestones, deployment of resources, and time management at both micro and macro-level. The article shows that Takt Planning is an essential addition to the existing process and can’t be considered a sole solution. Applying Takt Planning helps teams to clearly identify the difference between the outputs they get from Master Planning, Last Planner System, and Takt Planning. Master Planning gives a broad picture of a project, whereas LPS scales that image in more specific details, and Takt Planning proves its success in accomplishing both benefits in more detail.
References
1. Fish, M. A. E. , Salhab, D. , Urizar, M. , Shoeb, M. , Neeraganti, T. & Majed, A. 2022, 'Takt Planning Effectiveness Into One Billion Dollars Projects' In:, Proc. 30th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC). Edmonton, Canada, 27-29 Jul 2022. pp 13-24