Employee perspectives on Lean implementation in the Finnish manufacturing sector

Abstract

Lean has become a widely adopted management strategy in today’s ever-increasingly competitive industrial landscape which helps organizations to improve operational efficiency, eliminate waste, and enhance value creation for the customer. While different organizations across different industries have adopted Lean practice, limited attention has been given to the human aspect involved in Lean, especially, employee perception and engagement towards Lean initiatives which plays a critical role in determining whether Lean implementation will be a success or failure. In addition, academic research on this phenomenon is also limited, particularly in the Finnish context. This study bridges that gap by investigating Lean implementation from the employees' point of view within the Finnish manufacturing sector.

Drawing on a qualitative research approach using semi-structured interviews, this thesis addresses the primary driving forces behind the development of positive employee perception and barriers hindering positive employee perception of Lean implementation in the Finnish manufacturing sector. Therefore, this research seeks to better understand how employees in the Finnish manufacturing sector actually experience and perceive the application of Lean methodology.

The findings reveal that factors such as awareness of Lean methodology, support from the management, transparent communication, employee empowerment, and training drive positive employee perception, while poor communication, inadequate follow-through, limited involvement, lack of support, and resistance to change play as obstacles to generate positive employee perception towards the Lean implementation. The study contributes valuable insights to both academia and industry by reinforcing the significance of employee perception in sustaining Lean initiatives.