Core Lean Principles
The Core Lean Principles provide a systematic approach to maximising value by eliminating waste. By defining value from the customer’s perspective and optimising the value stream, organisations can enhance flow, respond to real demand, and pursue continuous improvement. These principles create lean, responsive systems.
Technique Overview
Core Lean Principles Definition
The Core Lean Principles offer a structured framework to reduce waste and improve value delivery. Developed by Womack and Jones (1996), they include five stages: Value (define from the customer’s perspective), Value Stream (map and remove waste), Flow (ensure continuous process movement), Pull (produce only what is needed), and Perfection (pursue zero defects). These principles drive operational efficiency, customer focus, and ongoing improvement.
Core Lean Principles Description *
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Business Evidence
Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Core Lean Principles *
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Business Application
Implementation, success factors and measures of Core Lean Principles *
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Professional Tools
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Further Reading
Core Lean Principles web and print resources *
Core Lean Principles references (4 of up to 20) *
- Bhamu, J. and Sangwan, K.S. (2014) ‘Lean manufacturing: literature review and research issues’, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 34(7), pp. 876–940. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOPM-08-2012-0315
- Cachadinha, N. (2020) ‘Implementing Lean Construction: Understanding and action’, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 146(5). https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)CO.1943-7862.0001776
- Costa, D., Godina, R., Carvalho, H., Matos, F., Araújo, C. and Azevedo, S.G. (2024) ‘Lean tools in luxury metalworking: Enhancing production through value stream mapping’, Procedia CIRP, 124, pp. 214–219. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.procir.2023.12.113
- Cruz-Gomez, L., Maicas, J.P., Moliner, M.A. and Pérez-Aróstegui, M.N. (2023) ‘Implementing pull systems in retail supply chains: A performance assessment’, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, 76, 103365. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jretconser.2023.103365
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