An Empirical Study of the Application of Lean Tools in U.S. Industry

Abstract

Lean manufacturing involves implementing a variety of tools and practices for the purpose of reducing waste and increasing an organization’s overall productivity. The movement toward lean thinking that has gained incredible popularity in recent decades has changed the way businesses operate, and such tools have become essential for maintaining a competitive edge, both regionally and internationally. This article examines the application of lean tools in various U.S. industries to further clarify the impact lean processes may have on an American business’s production and efficiency. To gather the necessary information and experiences of U.S. organizations, the authors executed a thorough literature review to secure topics and concerns that must be addressed in a survey. The survey derived from their findings from the relevant literature was distributed to U.S. industries spanning the nation, whose feedback provides a holistic view of lean process applications throughout the country. The analysis of the information collected from the survey demonstrates how lean tools have influenced American industries and allows one to see which lean practices contribute the greatest to overall company performance, as well as observe patterns in how company characteristics (that is, ownership, size, industry) may affect the successful implementation of lean processes.

Keywords:

• continuous improvement
• lean process
• lean systems
• lean tools
• quality management

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marvin E. Gonzalez

Marvin E. Gonzalez is an associate professor of supply chain management at the College of Charleston. He received his doctorate from Purdue University, his master’s degree in quality systems from ITESM, Mexico, and his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Costa Rica Tec. He is the author of the book QFD: A Road for Listening the Customer Expectations. He is currently engaged as a researcher on different projects related to advanced manufacturing technologies, customer loyalty, lean and Six Sigma processes, supply chain management, and quality management. His research has been published in the International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Quality Management Journal, Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, Journal of International Education, Benchmarking: An International Journal, among others.

Gioconda Quesada

Gioconda Quesada is a professor in information systems and supply chain management at the College of Charleston. She has a doctorate in manufacturing management and engineering from the University of Toledo, received her master’s degree in manufacturing management from the University of Toledo, and her bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from ITCR, Costa Rica. Her research interests are in the areas of electronic commerce, supply chain management, and information technology. She has published in journals such as Journal of Supply Chain Management, International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Benchmarking: An International Journal, and Quality Management Journal.

Carlo A. Mora-Monge

Carlo A. Mora-Monge is the Wells Fargo Professor and head of the Department of Management in the College of Business at New Mexico State University. He earned his doctorate in manufacturing management and engineering from the University of Toledo. His current areas of research and teaching interest include e-commerce, supply chain issues, and business analytics. He has published in Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, Quality Management Journal, and other academic outlets.

Maitland E. Barton

Maitland E. Barton has a master’s degree in human resource management and organizational behavior from Lingnan University, Hong Kong SAR. She received a bachelor’s degree in supply chain and information management and a bachelor’s degree in international studies from the College of Charleston. Her areas of interest include quality management, green supply chain practices, and global relations.