Laser

A framework for managing change in lean manufacturing implementation
Norani Nordin, Department of Technology Management, College of Business, Universiti Utara Malaysia Baba Md Deros, Dzuraidah Abdul Wahab, Mohd Nizam Ab. Rahman Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Abstract:
Lean manufacturing is a proven approach for success in manufacturing industry. However, several organisations failed in their attempt to implement lean manufacturing system. The transition to lean manufacturing requires radical change which involves a total reshaping of purpose, system and culture of the organisation. The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework that could assist a manufacturing firm to implement lean manufacturing system successfully. The insights of literature and multiple case studies are combined to develop the organisational change framework. Leadership and direction, and change agent system found to be the most critical factors in managing change to lean manufacturing. Furthermore, the smooth transition also requires effective communication, workers’ empowerment and lean review system. Failure in recognising the required organisational change factors to be adapted in lean transition may hinder the long-term benefits of the company.

Keywords:
Lean manufacturing, organisational change framework, multiple case studies

1. Introduction
Lean manufacturing has become a widely acceptable and adoptable best manufacturing practice across countries and industries. The ultimate goal of a lean organisation is to create a smooth, high quality organisation that is able to produce finished products at the rate of customer demands with no waste. However, in reality, many organisations are not able to transform themselves to lean manufacturing organisations towards creating world-class companies. Transformation towards the lean manufacturing is full with formidable challenges. It is