Impact Of Lean Systems This Week You Read About Implementati

Impact Of Lean Systemsthis Week You Read About Implemen

Discussion 1: Impact of Lean Systems This week, you read about implementing a lean system in an effort to reduce waste of resources, time, and effort. The impact of implementing a lean system was highlighted in the video “Process System Improvement: Implementation Featuring Gortrac.” Consider what you have read about implementing a lean system. Reflect on the effects of a lean system on workers and managers as demonstrated in the video program. Post by Wednesday, December 16, 2015, a 300-word statement that addresses the following: What is the impact of implementing a lean system on the relationship between managers and employees? Do you believe lean systems have a positive or a negative impact on the relationships between managers and workers? Explain and support your response. Support your work with specific citations from the Learning Resources. You are allowed to draw from additional sources to support your argument, but you must cite using APA standards. All quoted material must be identified, cited, and referenced per APA standards.

Paper For Above instruction

Implementing a lean system fundamentally influences the relationship between managers and employees by fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared responsibility. Lean systems aim to eliminate waste and inefficiencies, which often requires active involvement from both management and staff to identify issues and develop solutions (Liker, 2004). This participative approach can lead to a more egalitarian dynamic, in which employees feel empowered and trusted, thus improving mutual respect and communication. Managers, on the other hand, shift from traditional authoritative roles to facilitative leaders who support employee-driven problem-solving efforts (Womack & Jones, 2003).

In the video “Process System Improvement: Implementation Featuring Gortrac,” the relationship dynamics between managers and workers are notably positive, highlighting increased engagement and shared goals. The implementation of Lean principles encourages managers to listen to frontline employees’ insights, recognizing their expertise in daily operations. This shift promotes a sense of ownership among workers, ultimately strengthening the bond between managers and staff (Ohno, 1988). When employees are involved in decision-making, they tend to develop greater job satisfaction and commitment, leading to a more harmonious work environment.

Generally, lean systems tend to have a positive impact on manager-worker relationships. The emphasis on team collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement builds trust and mutual understanding (Rungtusanatham et al., 2014). By removing barriers to communication and involving employees in process improvements, lean initiatives diminish hierarchical tensions and foster a participative culture. However, some critics argue that if poorly implemented, lean practices can increase pressure on workers, potentially leading to stress and conflict. This underscores the importance of carefully managing lean transformations to ensure they are inclusive and supportive (Hines et al., 2004).

In conclusion, when properly implemented, lean systems tend to have a constructive and positive impact on relationships between managers and employees. They promote cooperation, empower workers, and cultivate a shared commitment to organizational goals. As shown in the Gortrac case, this cooperative dynamic enhances operational efficiency while reinforcing a supportive work environment.

References

• Hines, P., Holweg, M., & Rich, N. (2004). Learning to evolve: A review of contemporary lean thinking. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 24(10), 994-1011.
• Liker, J. K. (2004). The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer. McGraw-Hill.
• Ohno, T. (1988). Toyota Production System: Beyond Large-Scale Production. Productivity Press.
• Rungtusanatham, M., Choi, T. Y., Holsapple, C. W., & Yoon, H. J. (2014). The role of lean principles in improving supply chain performance: A literature review and research agenda. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 50(4), 56-70.
• Womack, J. P., & Jones, D. T. (2003). Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation. Free Press.