How the Different Visual Management Components Have an Impact on Developing a Lean Culture?

Abstract

Vulnerable, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment surrounding companies, makes difficult to ensure business continuity and growth. Many companies have decided to deal with such complexity by pursuing a Lean Culture to drive organization competitiveness and efficiency to fulfil their Vision and Mission Statements. They leverage company’s values as foundation to execute their strategic plan and dominate their markets. Many have taken the decision, however not all are successful at sustaining a lean culture. Why is that possible, if most of the companies are following Lean Methodologies and broad or extensive use of Six Sigma tools? There is not a magic formula for a company to create that lean culture; however, the ones that had achieve it, highlight the role of leadership and the deployment plan. This research was intended to evaluate how visual management could take a key role at helping management on creating the desired culture. Key Terms ⎯ Continuous Improvement Culture, Lean Culture, Lean Transformation, Visual Management.