Where Rhetoric and Lean Meet

Koskela, Lauri (2015) Where Rhetoric and Lean Meet. In: Proceedings of the 23rd Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction. IGLC (23). IGLC.net, Perth, Australia, pp. 527-535.

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Abstract

This paper aims at an initial analysis and explanation of lean through the lens of the discipline of rhetoric. First, the ancient origin, central ideas, subsequent history and current interpretations of rhetoric are outlined. Then, the overall meeting points of rhetoric and lean are discussed. At the outset, it is contended that certain arguments that can be used as a justification in rhetoric seem fertile for understanding the difference between lean and conventional management. Then, persuasion towards compliance in production is discussed. The field of visual management is argued to have an implicit foundation in rhetoric. The existence of a common ground of values, facts and presumptions between the speaker and the audience is emphasized in rhetoric; it is contended that lean construction in many ways endeavours to create such a common ground among the project participants. Regarding deliberation, the rhetorical dimensions in the methods of A3 and Choosing by Advantages are discussed. Further, Target Value Design is identified as based, for their part, on rhetorical ideas. In conclusion, it is contended that many aspects of lean, which as such may seem odd and perhaps perip

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management T Technology > TH Building construction
Schools:	School of Art, Design and Architecture
Related URLs:	Author Conference Organisation
Depositing User:	Sara Taylor
Date Deposited:	11 Aug 2015 13:40
Last Modified:	31 Mar 2018 11:46
URI:	http://eprints.hud.ac.uk/id/eprint/25401

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