Using Lean Six Sigma Methodology to Improve Management of Construction Projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This paper aims to improve the management of construction projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing the two most important pillars of project management: the last two management principles, which are time management and cost management. This research uses Lean Six Sigma as its framework of analysis. Two questionnaires will serve as the main tools in order to determine the major sources of project delays and cost overruns. These elements will be quantified to be evaluated with a higher accuracy using the Relative Importance Index and Weighted Evaluation Matrix, as well as earned value management. Finally, at the improvement stage, there will be efforts to discover ways of improving the management of construction projects and how to overcome the factors that have been observed. Last but not least, the improvements will be controlled, and the Lean Six Sigma methodology will be applied without stoppage. When used continuously, this will make a drastic change in the management of construction projects, in which projects have to be delivered on time, within the stipulated contractual period; costs have to be controlled; contractors have to make their maximum profit possible; and last but not least, get the highest quality possible.