Marek Szwejczewski, Bob Lillis, Valeria Belvedere, Alberto Grando
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose
Previous research has identified factors that enable lean change to be sustained. What remains unknown is how the interaction effects amongst these factors vary as lean change programmes mature. When are particular factors at their most influential?
Design/methodology/approach
Using a data and investigator triangulated qualitative research strategy, this paper tests an a priori model of change sustainability factors. In phase one, the research reveals the influence and significance of the model's change sustainability factors within 13 manufacturers. In phase two, four factors (Leadership, Political, Individual and Managerial) were selected for in-depth case study analyses in three manufacturers.
Findings
These point to when in the lean change, certain factors have the most influence on its sustainability. The Leadership factor and political factor are essential at the beginning and remain influential throughout. Employees' individual commitment (Individual factor) is significant in sustaining the change but it is at its most influential in the later stages. The Managerial factor (management approach) is influential in the mature stages of the programme.
Practical implications
Recognising where to put maximum focus during a lean change programme as it matures is crucial for management.
Originality/value
Sustaining lean change has not been studied from the perspective of what factors need to be emphasised at different stages in the programme for successful maturity to occur. Through empirical validation, this study helps address this knowledge gap.
Quick value overview
Interesting because – Researchers have found that the majority of lean implementations fail – changes to structures and working practices are made only to see the gains dissipate. Previous research has suggested that multiple factors including leadership, culture and politics influence the change towards a lean organisation. While studies have shown that such factors play a role, what has not been studied is the time, that is, when the factors influence the change process. This study investigated when 11 factors have the most influence on lean implementation. Theoretical value – The study extends the state-of-the-art understanding of implementation of lean in organisations by adding a time element. It is found that in order to have a change that is sustainable, that is, lasting at least 18 months, factors that indicate the importance to the organisation are influential during the entire implementation process. This includes how central the change is to the organisation, the influence of leadership that sets vision and goals, and the implementation methods. Factors that can set things in motion such as the influence of important stakeholders are important at the beginning of the implementation process but then decline in influence over time. While factors that seem to have to do more with how companies operate have less influence at the start but become more influential over time. These include employees' commitment, the managerial style and approach, the organisational policies and structure, and the organisational culture. Practical value – Introducing lean into an organisation and gaining its sustained benefits is often not successful. While factors have previously been identified that influence the success of lean implementation, this study provides additional practical insight. It helps manufacturers be more effective by pinpointing which factors should be focused on during the various stages of the implementation process.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management (JMTM) aspires to be the premier destination for impactful manufacturing-related research. JMTM provides comprehensive international coverage of topics pertaining to the management of manufacturing technology, focusing on bridging theoretical advancements with practical applications to enhance manufacturing practices.
JMTM seeks articles grounded in empirical evidence, such as surveys, case studies, and action research, to ensure relevance and applicability. All submissions should include a thorough literature review to contextualize the study within the field and clearly demonstrate how the research contributes significantly and originally by comparing and contrasting its findings with existing knowledge. Articles should directly address management of manufacturing technology and offer insights with broad applicability.