The Last Planner System in China's construction industry — A SWOT analysis on implementation

• The practical and theoretical development of Last Planner System (LPS) and their relevance to project management are discussed
• The current planning methods adopted by Chinese building professionals are examined using the LPS standard
• The possible strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat factors on implementation of LPS in construction projects in China are analysed

The Last Planner System™ (LPS) is well-documented in the literature, and has sometimes been used to represent lean construction or lean project management. LPS aims to achieve reliable workflow by encouraging foremen to have a sense of ownership of the project programme and to build-in their commitment into it. This study reports on the perceptions of Chinese building professionals of the application of LPS in Chinese construction projects. It reveals that several components of LPS have already taken place in large Chinese construction firms. Further, this study employs a SWOT analysis to examine the possible strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat factors that might have an impact on implementation of LPS in construction projects in China.