Front-line lean leader capacities, practices and effects on implementing tools: a survey of leaders in industrial companies
International Journal of Lean Six Sigma
ISSN: 2040-4166
Article publication date: 5 April 2024
Issue publication date: 28 June 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Front-line lean leadership is critical for implementing and sustaining lean production systems (LPS). The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationships between front-line lean leader (FLL) capacities (cognitive, social, motivational, knowledge and experience), lean leader practices (developing people and supporting daily kaizen) and the degree of implementation of lean tools (pull system, involvement of employees and process control) in manufacturing companies.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey was conducted with FLLs from large Brazilian manufacturing companies. The survey collected 103 responses, 99 of which were validated. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.
Findings
There was a positive, significant and direct relationship between FLL capacities, leadership practices and a degree of implementation of LPS tools on the shop floor. The validated model is a reference base for planning FLL capacities and practices that result in more effectively implementing LPS on the shop floor.
Practical implications
The findings provide managers with a new perspective on the importance of the development and training of FLLs focusing on leadership capacities. As decisions about developing lean capabilities impact the application of Lean leadership practices and the use of lean tools, they are also related to day-to-day lean activities and improved operational results. Additionally, the proposed model can be used by managers as a basis to diagnose, develop and select lean leaders.
Originality/value
This study seeks to fill a theoretical gap of knowledge on front-line lean leadership as it jointly addresses and empirically analyzes the existing relationships between lean leadership capacities, encompassing the perspective of psychology, lean practices and tools on the shop floor.
Keywords
Citation
Simões, J.M.S., Toledo, J.C.d. and Lizarelli, F.L. (2024), "Front-line lean leader capacities, practices and effects on implementing tools: a survey of leaders in industrial companies", International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, Vol. 15 No. 4, pp. 925-956. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLSS-10-2021-0178
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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