Application of Last Planner System to Modular Offshore Wind Construction

Abstract

The focus of this study is the applicability of the Last Planner System (LPS) to modular offshore wind construction. Following a design science approach, a conceptual model for LPS adapted to modular offshore wind construction was developed, then refined and evaluated in a field study. The field study investigated was an offshore wind project in the Belgian part of the North Sea. Theoretical knowledge from academics as well as practical experience from field experts allowed adjusting LPS to the context of modular offshore wind construction. The case study organization participated in artifact development and evaluated its utility through implementation. Implementation of the developed artifact reduced the project duration by 21% compared to the as-planned original critical path method (CPM) schedule. Because offshore wind projects have tended to substantially overrun their scheduled durations, 21% may understate the actual improvement. Compared to current installation time within the industry, the project made a 36% reduction, measured by average installation time per megawatt. The developed LPS artifact contributes to the body of knowledge by adaptation of LPS to modular construction, and the evaluation shows its usefulness in the context of modular offshore wind construction.