Takt-Time Planning and the Last Planner

Abstract

Introduction of the Last PlannerTM System helped to improve predictability and overall productivity in the construction industry. In manufacturing, the use of takttime resulting in production to a set beat, has long been a center piece in leveling work flow and optimizing production lines. This paper will explore how we successfully merge the rigorous and more pre-determined structure of takt-time planning with the fluid, more interactive and responsive Last PlannerTM System. The paper will use the Cathedral Hill Hospital Project as an example of takt-time planning in use and describe how the production team can work together with Last Planners to make sure that the structure and alignment from the takt-time plan also improve and simplify the Last Planner’s ability to plan their work successfully. We are especially interested in the dynamics around worker buy-in and the notion of manageable ‘chunks’ of work to improve the ability for workers to plan successfully.