Mapping progress
The
construction of the Landmark building’s elaborate concrete, aluminium and
glass façade requires not only precision engineering but the well-timed
delivery of materials and accurate assembly. An error in any part of the
process could result in costly delays and have a knock on effect for the
completion of the construction.
It’s the efficiency of this process that Bachelor of Construction
Management and Economics student, Anthony Gagliardi, is examining as his
final year project.
"My project focuses on Value Stream Mapping (VSM), a tool that is used in
industry to improve efficiency," Gagliardi said. "In manufacturing and
construction, there are possibly hundreds of steps that are taken to create
a finished product. VSM puts that process down on paper to see what path is
taken, to analyse it and to identify problems or steps that could be removed
or improved."
Gagliardi is still in the early stages of the project, but has already
completed a literature review, met with Built Environs and has meetings with
the façade designers and material suppliers to follow. And while his project
may not have practical application for the Landmark project, he hopes his
findings will improve the delivery process for future construction jobs.
"I have learnt a lot so far. VSM is a powerful tool that can be applied to
all industries to improve efficiency," he said. "This has been a good
learning experience. It has allowed me to improve my research techniques,
time management and communication skills in the process."