Classifying Lean Production: A Review of Empirical Research

Abstract

Lean production has been studied extensively during the past few decades.  Many authors agree that Western production techniques are outdated and that there is a significant shift towards the “Lean” production philosophy.  The purpose of this paper is to review and classify the lean production empirical research, identify well-traveled paths, and offer suggestions for future research.  Articles were collected from the premier refereed journals in the fields of Supply Chain and Operations Management.  Classification of the articles utilizing a “SPOT” model based on four fundamental lean production principles is presented in the paper.  A majority of the articles included in this review concentrate on an operations or elimination of waste element.  Future research paths, including “Sustainable” lean production are discussed.