Implementation of Lean Construction Techniques Using Microsoft Project (MSP) for Time and Cost Optimization in Residential Building Projects: A Review

This study investigated the application of Just-in-Time (JIT) material management integrated with prefabricated construction as an effective lean construction strategy for improving project performance. A comprehensive review of the existing literature revealed that lean construction principles, Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), and prefabrication have individually contributed to enhancing construction productivity, reducing waste, and improving sustainability. However, limited research has focused on the combined implementation of JIT material management and prefabricated construction, particularly under Indian construction conditions.The critical analysis demonstrated that JIT significantly reduces inventory levels, storage requirements, material handling, and site congestion by ensuring timely delivery of construction components. Prefabrication complements JIT by enabling off-site manufacturing, improving quality control, reducing on-site labor dependency, minimizing material waste, and accelerating project completion. The integration of these approaches supports lean construction objectives by creating a continuous workflow, improving coordination among stakeholders, and enhancing overall project efficiency. The literature further indicated that although modern technologies such as BIM, IoT, cloud computing, and simulation models have strengthened lean construction practices, their practical implementation remains limited in many developing countries. Existing studies primarily emphasize productivity improvement and waste reduction, while comparatively fewer investigations have comprehensively evaluated inventory optimization, logistics performance, cost efficiency, and schedule improvement through JIT-enabled prefabrication. Furthermore, most previous research is based on conceptual frameworks, literature reviews, questionnaire surveys, or geographically limited case studies, indicating the need for more empirical investigations.Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the successful integration of Just-in-Time material management with prefabricated construction has significant potential to improve construction productivity, reduce project duration, lower inventory and storage costs, minimize material waste, optimize resource utilization, and enhance project quality. The combined implementation also contributes to sustainable construction by reducing unnecessary transportation, minimizing environmental impacts, and improving overall project management efficiency. The present study addresses an important research gap by providing a comprehensive analysis of lean construction techniques and highlighting the benefits of integrating JIT with prefabrication. The findings provide useful guidance for construction managers, project planners, contractors, and policymakers seeking to improve project performance through lean practices. Future research should focus on large-scale field implementation across different construction sectors, quantitative performance assessment using real project data, economic analysis of life-cycle benefits, and integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, BIM 5D, and advanced IoT systems to further strengthen lean construction practices and support the digital transformation of the construction industry.

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