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Researching Lean: Methodological Implications of Loose Definitions

Author

Listed:
  • Mikael Brännmark
  • Jostein Langstrand
  • Stina Johansson
  • Agneta Halvarsson
  • Lena Abrahamsson
  • Jörgen Winkel

Abstract

Recently, Lean Production (Lean) has become a prevailing management concept in Sweden. However, previous research seems to show that the Lean concept and the impact of Lean vary considerably between organizations. This paper illustrates some key methodological issues that need to be considered when researching loosely defined management concepts such as Lean. The paper is based on a review of the literature and five comparative Swedish cases studies. Our study indicates that Lean has changed over time and that operationalization and interpretations of the concept vary considerably. This study concludes that future Lean studies should include a thorough assessment of the Lean interventions, study settings, and in particular non-Lean factors mediating the outcomes of Lean-inspired change programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Mikael Brännmark & Jostein Langstrand & Stina Johansson & Agneta Halvarsson & Lena Abrahamsson & Jörgen Winkel, 2012. "Researching Lean: Methodological Implications of Loose Definitions," Quality Innovation Prosperity, Technical University of Košice, Department of integrated management, vol. 16(2).
    • Handle: RePEc:tuk:qipqip:v:16:y:2012:i:2:3
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    File URL: http://www.qip-journal.eu/index.php/QIP/article/download/67/46
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hélène Giroux, 2006. "‘It Was Such a Handy Term’: Management Fashions and Pragmatic Ambiguity," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 43(6), pages 1227-1260, September.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Validity; mediating factors; contextual factors; Lean impact; study design;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Z - Other Special Topics

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