Lean Product Development in Swedish Industry: An Exploratory Study

Abstract: Purpose: This thesis serves to answer what lean product development consists of, as practiced by Swedish firms, and what are the implications for management of the experiences made. Method: An exploratory investigation of the concept of lean product development in Swedish industry, performed through a case study and a complementing interview survey. Theory: A theoretical framework, starting from innovation theory and positioning the role of product development in innovation and business strategy, is provided. The existing literature on lean product development is surveyed, starting from its origins in lean concepts developed for manufacturing. Findings: Lean product development practices, inspired locally by Scania, are spreading fast in Swedish industry. Methods to create cadence, notably tools to visualize processes, command a remarkably prominent position not reflected in existing literature. Formalized cadence models appear promising with regard to e.g. predictability and transparency, and may indirectly improve concurrency and cross-functionality in product development work. However, Swedish lean product development does not address long-term product development strategy, which managers should thus assess independently.