Organisational Change Management Framework for Lean Manufacturing Implementation

Organisational Change Management Framework for Lean Manufacturing Implementation

Norani Nordin, Baba Md Deros, Dzuraidah Abdul Wahab and Mohd Nizam Ab. Rahman

Abstract: Lean manufacturing system has been widely applied in manufacturing companies worldwide. However, the low rate of success towards the lean transformation in many countries has given a cause of concern. Many literatures had pointed out that the main reason is due to the failure in managing the change process during lean manufacturing transformation. This paper attempts to develop a framework for lean manufacturing implementation. The framework is of particular significance not only because it is about lean manufacturing, but it is set in a context of process change in lean manufacturing transition. This study employed an explanatory mixed method approach, which began with survey distribution, and then the general picture was further refined by conducting in-depth interviews on Malaysia automotive companies. The quantitative and qualitative results shows that the key factors to smooth lean manufacturing transition are: change readiness, leadership and management, change agent system, team development and empowerment, communication, and review system. This stream of lean implementation efforts are the basis of the development of organisational change framework in lean manufacturing implementation. This framework may add to the body of knowledge for both academics and practitioners. At the theoretical level, the framework has important strengths because it explicitly framing the relationship between change management and lean manufacturing implementation. Failure to recognize the required organisational changes to adapt lean manufacturing system will hinder the long-term benefits to the organisation. The framework also may provide practitioners with a better understanding on the lean transition process to minimize resistance and conflicts and thus improve its chance of success.

Keywords: lean manufacturing, organisational change, mixed method research, framework development.

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