From Last Planner to Lasting Change
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
From Last Planner to Lasting Change: How the Midion Method Transforms Lean Construction
Every major construction project today is flirting with chaos. Your schedule may look tight, your logic sound, and your commitments defined; yet somewhere, somehow, things slip: miscoordination happens, trust frays, costs balloon, and timelines stretch. The reason isn’t ignorance of Lean project tools like the Last Planner System (LPS), it’s that most implementations stop at planning. They rarely disrupt the hidden dynamics that actually drive execution. The Last Planner is necessary, but it’s not the only thing that is necessary. The Midion Method builds on Lean foundations and addresses the organizational, cultural, and leadership gaps that make or break results.
What Is the Last Planner System in Lean Construction?
The Last Planner System is a Lean project tool that improves accountability, predictability, and collaboration by engaging those closest to the work. It is designed to increase reliability and flow in project delivery.
Traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule.
Key elements include:
- Pull / phase planning
- Lookahead planning
- Weekly work commitments
- Daily huddles
- Metrics such as Percent Plan Complete (PPC)
Yet, despite these advantages, traditional construction only completes ~54% of planned tasks on schedule — highlighting the gap that tools like Last Planner aim to close. (Lean Construction Institute)
Download Last Planner White Paper:
Common Challenges with the Last Planner System
Even with adoption, Last Planner challenges persist on large, enterprise projects:
- It is often treated as a scheduling tool, not a cultural shift.
- Leadership disengagement undermines execution.
- Trust and accountability are fragile in high-pressure environments.
- Misalignment persists between the master schedule and field commitments.
- Large-scale complexity exceeds the tool’s scope.
As one Midion healthcare client found during a billion-dollar expansion, visibility alone wasn’t enough. Deadlines were still missed until leadership alignment and culture change were addressed.
Why Leadership Alignment Is the Missing Link
Last Planner works best when executives actively support it. Without alignment, promise-making at the field level gets undermined by high-level decisions. Katie Coulson, EVP at Skanska USA, put it plainly:
“Midion’s approach has been a game-changer for us. Their ability to align our teams and keep complex projects on track has consistently delivered outstanding results.”
The Midion Method builds this alignment directly into the project structure, bridging field execution and C-suite decision-making.
The Midion Method vs. the Last Planner System
The Midion Method is not a replacement for Lean or Last Planner. Instead, it extends them with enterprise-level practices:
Last Planner Focus
- Reliable commitments, constraint removal
- Field-level coordination
- Metrics (PPC)
- Learning from breakdowns
- Continuous improvement
Midion Method Addition
- Leadership alignment, decision frameworks
- Culture and trust-building practices
- Business outcomes (cost, duration, risk)
- Structured reflection across teams
- Strategic integration and change management
Ron Lawson, Director of Construction at Cleveland Clinic:
“Midion’s work resulted in reduced costs, shorter project durations, reduced risk, and—as important—healthier relationships.”
Explore the Midion Method vs. Lean Construction:
Lean Project Consulting Case Studies: Applying the Midion Method Beyond Last Planner
Healthcare Expansion Project
Last Planner helped with planning, but true results came once Midion guided executive alignment and cultural reset. Outcome: on-time delivery and improved trust. Read the case study.
Applied Digital Data Center
With Midion facilitating collaboration and leadership engagement, throughput improved, and communication strengthened. Read the case study.
Brad Barton, EVP at Applied Digital:
“Midion played a pivotal role in transforming our data center project by focusing on what truly matters: team building and people.”
Lean Project Management Consulting Strategies: How to Move from Last Planner to Lasting Change
To go beyond Lean Construction tools:
- Audit how commitments flow across the field and executive levels.
- Facilitate leadership alignment interventions.
- Build trust and accountability practices into project culture.
- Link PPC and planning metrics to business outcomes.
- Institutionalize learning cycles across phases.
- Model new behaviors at the leadership tier.
The Executive Takeaway
The Last Planner System is a foundation, but the Midion Method transforms it into lasting change. If your project relies solely on Lean tools and still struggles, it’s time to evolve. Contact Midion to explore how the Midion Method can unlock alignment and measurable performance.
