Exploring the factors influencing managers' decision to implement lean in their organizations : Perspective of Swedish manufacturing companies and lean consultancy firms

Abstract: This thesis seeks to find out which factors affect the decision to implement “lean” within manufacturing firms, and thus to build on the theory of lean implementation-driving factors. The research problem addressed, is the lack of literature regarding driver factors for lean implementation, and the potential applicability of strategic decision making (SDM) literature to the subject.   The thesis has been designed as a multiple case study of six manufacturing companies that have implemented lean, three of which are leaders in the market with longer lean experience. To gain a wider perspective on the topic, these case studies have been supplemented with an additional three pilot interviews with lean consultancy firms.                Based on our findings, this study comes to conclusions concerning the relevance that individual, organizational, and external factors have on the decision to implement lean. It also shows the influence that various factors not mentioned in previous literature have on the decision to implement lean (such as “following the trend” and organizational age). This study also reveals the dissimilarities between factors influencing strategic decision making and those influencing lean implementation, such as governmental regulations and objectives of sustainability. Finally, this paper includes suggestions for further research within the topic.