Strategic Lean Thinking and Value Management philosophies in the Construction and Maintenance of Gravel Roads in Zambia

Abstract

The study was aimed at devising new Construction and Maintenance Contract methods for gravel roads that are based on “Lean Thinking and Value Management” philosophies in Zambia. The study revealed that currently in Zambia, Gravel Road Construction projects are commonly being realised through the use of traditional Contracts such as ad-measured; by the use of Bills of Quantities (BOQs), the Lump sum and Cost plus, etc. These are mainly short term form of Contracts which to some extent, lack some components of sustainable maintenance regimes, thereby rendering the Government and other Promoters efforts futile as gravel roads sooner or later deteriorate just after the first rain season upon their construction.