Lean Manufacturing

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JMTM 17,4

Critical success factors for lean implementation within SMEs
Pius Achanga, Esam Shehab, Rajkumar Roy and Geoff Nelder
Department of Enterprise Integration, School of Industrial and Manufacturing Science, Centre for Decision Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK
Abstract
Purpose – The aim of this research paper is to present the critical factors that constitute a successful implementation of lean manufacturing within manufacturing SMEs. Design/methodology/approach – A combination of comprehensive literature review and visits to ten SMEs based in the East of the UK were employed in the study. The companies’ practices were observed to highlight the degree of lean manufacturing utilisation within these companies. This was followed by interviewing of the relevant and key personnel involved in lean implementation. Results were analysed and validated through workshops, case studies and Delphi techniques. Findings – Several critical factors that determine the success of implementing the concept of lean manufacturing within SMEs are identified. Leadership, management, finance organisational culture and skills and expertise, amongst other factors; are classified as the most pertinent issues critical for the successful adoption of lean manufacturing within SMEs environment. Research limitations/implications – Continued scepticism within SMEs about the benefits of lean to their business is one of the fundamental limitations this research faces. SMEs are, therefore, not very willing to provide useful information and data, timely for further investigation. Originality/value – The novelty of this research project stems from the realisation of critical factors determining a successful implementation of lean manufacturing within SMEs environment. The results would provide SMEs with indicators and guidelines for a successful implementation of lean

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About the authors Pius Achanga obtained his BSc degree in Information Technology at the University of Hull and an MSc in the Management Of Manufacturing Systems from Cranfield University. Currently, he is pursuing a three-year doctorate degree in Decision Engineering, with a collaborative effort of Cranfield University and the MAS in the East of the UK (MAS-East). His research is titled: developing a framework for assessing the impacts of lean manufacturing implementation within SMEs. Pius Achanga is the corresponding author and can be contacted at: p.c.achanga@cranfield.ac.uk Esam Shehab is currently a Lecturer in Decision Engineering, having joined the School in 2004. Prior to this, he was a research fellow in the Medway School of Engineering, University of Greenwich, working for a number of years in industry before he joined academia. He obtained both his first degree with first class honour and his master by research in mechanical engineering. He was awarded his PhD from De Montfort University, Leicester with experience in industrial projects with prestigious companies such as Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications. E-mail: e.shehab@cranfield.ac.uk Rajkumar Roy has a background in manufacturing engineering and artificial intelligence. He started his professional career in manufacturing industry back in 1987, and worked in the area of knowledge engineering, decision support and shop floor implementation of expert systems. His research projects have a strong focus on industrial applications. He is currently leading the research in Decision Engineering area at Cranfield. The research theme includes engineering cost estimating, design optimisation and micro-knowledge management. E-mail: r.roy@cranfield.ac.uk Geoff Nelder’s work includes research, teaching and consultancy related to identifying and implementing performance improvements in small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises. He is currently assigned full-time to the DTI’s MAS as Chief Executive of the Service in the East of the UK. The MAS is tasked with helping manufacturing enterprises to improve their productivity. E-mail: [e-mail] Critical success factors for lean implementation 471 To purchase reprints of this article please e-mail: [e-mail] Or visit our web site for further details: www.emeraldinsight.com/reprints