CBPM Conference 2026 · Vol. 2026, Issue 1

Adoption of Lean Construction Techniques by SMEs in the Western Cape Province, South Africa to Enhance Project Delivery

Nkemeleng Mbhasa, Luviwe Bikitsha and Rainer Haldenwang

Keywords: Lean construction; Lean construction adoption; Lean construction techniques; Project delivery; SMEs

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Western Cape construction industry face significant challenges in adopting Lean Construction Techniques (LCT). This work examined the challenges and benefits that come with the adoption of LCT to improve the delivery of projects of SMEs in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The qualitative research methodology was employed, involving six semi-structured interviews with construction professionals from Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) registered SME constructors (grade1-6) operating within the Western Cape province. A thematic analysis was used to determine the existing practices, limitations and performance results. The results reveal that although LCTs are positively perceived among SMEs, its adoption is still informal and project-oriented because of financial limitations, lack of training, resistance to change, and weak commitment of management to embrace change. Despite these challenges, partial adoption of techniques like the Last Planner System (LPS), Just-in-time (JIT), 5S, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) contributed to improved workflow coordination, time management, decrease in rework, better performance of safety, and client satisfaction. The findings indicate that LC techniques and management commitment may be institutionalised to boost the performance of SMEs. The study established that Lean Construction techniques are a promising solution to enhance project delivery among SMEs in Western Cape if awareness, systematic training, and policy-backed solutions are given priority.