Evaluation and Comparison of Lean Manufacturing Practices in Britain and France: A Case Study of a Printing Solutions Organisation

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this research is to investigate and analyse theimplementation of Lean philosophy in two production plants SMEs –onein Britain and one in France- both belonging to the same global Americanprinting solutions and technology services organısation. The aim of the studyis to analyse the impact of lean practices on employees and on the organisationitself as well as the critical factors for a successful implementation.Design/methodology/approach: Using a case study approach, thecollection of primary data for this dissertation consisted of semi-structuredface-to-face interviews – seven in Britain and five in France - as well asobservations in both SMEs during the visits on-site.Findings; The evaluation of Lean practices in both companies revealedsignificant similarities concerning the principal Lean practices implementedand a general agreement about the importance of Lean in the current workplace. On the other hand, the study indicated differences in terms of culturalissues and internal barriers for a successful Lean adoption.Research Limitations/Implications: The samples between both companieswere different in terms of job position distribution. This study providesrecommendations beneficial to other organisations adopting Lean.Originality/Value: The novelty of this study stems from the exploration ofworkers’ points of view in relation to Lean practices, their implementation andtheir value in the work environment. Although the investigation undertakenin this research is based on only two SMEs with different backgrounds, thisstudy would recommend how SMEs can develop and improve their Leanpractices in the working place.