Lean production, workforce development and operational performance
ISSN: 0025-1747
Article publication date: 13 February 2017
Issue publication date: 13 February 2017
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to deepen the knowledge about the role of human resources in a lean environment and its impact on operational performance.
Design/methodology/approach
For this reason, present work investigates the influence of workforce development on the relationship between lean production and operational performance. To test the hypotheses of the paper, a questionnaire was developed and tested on a sample of first tier suppliers in the Spanish automotive industry.
Findings
Results highlight the indispensable role of workforce development in the implementation phase of lean production and draw upon the insight that advancements in implementation of lean production correspond to an increase in knowledgeable employees which in turn facilitates the attainment of improved operational performance outcomes.
Originality/value
The research reaffirm that lean is an integrated socio-technical system oriented to efficiency.
Keywords
Citation
Uhrin, Á., Bruque-Cámara, S. and Moyano-Fuentes, J. (2017), "Lean production, workforce development and operational performance", Management Decision, Vol. 55 No. 1, pp. 103-118. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-05-2016-0281
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited