The Design-Build model is inherently more efficient than traditional project delivery systems. Southland builds on that efficiency through lean construction techniques that minimize waste in operations and on job sites. An active member of the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) for over a decade, Southland works closely with local chapters and frequently presents case studies and project findings at LCI meetings. The ultimate intent? Use lean techniques to help align the interests of all project parties from the start - so that everyone comes out on top. Strengthening the Labor Force Shorter field hours and accurate labor cost predictions through in-house fabrications Reduced turnover, lower training costs and improved overall expertise Safer work environments through controlled in-house fabrication shops Additional tools maximize workers' effectiveness on job sites: Workers can focus their time on final field-assembly rather than performing costly, time-consuming field-build tasks Integrated wheel assemblies help workers move materials around the job site easily and with less risk of injury or damage to equipment Specially designed pulley towers that allow one person to quickly perform large installs Inventory Awareness Inventory management techniques reduce waste and provide accurate real-time information "Spooled" fabrication makes manufacture and assembly more efficient: CAD drawings are separated into sections prior to fabrication Final materials are packaged and labeled according to spool number for ease of placement during construction During construction, spooled sections are started and completed one at a time to eliminate "go back" work "Just In Time" (JIT) fabrication and delivery prevents the expense of on-site material storage and double-handling Materials are fabricated and delivered only when they're actually needed Project Management At all phases of a project, Southland’s team members are constantly evaluating the job status through one and three-week “look-aheads.” They determine what milestones are scheduled to be completed at specified time points, and ensure that the necessary labor and materials are in place when – and only when – necessary. Most importantly, the people in charge of performing the work are empowered to adjust the project schedule to maximize the efficiency of their resources.

Our commitment to excellence has put us in the forefront of developing the Design-Build-Maintain model. Our green projects were earning LEED certification before it became an industry buzz word. We’ve championed lean construction since its inception as a means of minimizing waste and maximizing value. And that, coupled with our use of Building Information Modeling (BIM), affirms our position as 21st century innovators.