In following a lean transformation specifically for discrete manufacturing, how and why will
the organisational structure be affected? How will the employees deal with this profound
change? Lean theory and literature propose that organisations should be restructured
according to the value stream of the organisation; what does this imply and how can it be
accomplished? The purpose of this study was to determine, from a new perspective,
guidelines and theory that could indicate how and why organisational structures and
behaviours might change with lean transformation. Two discrete manufacturing
organisations in South Africa were purposively sampled for this purpose.
A conceptual framework was used at the outset that indicated constructs for the
independent lean variables and the dependent organisational structure and behaviour
variables.
Using a mixed methodology case study and quantitative multiple linear regression
approach, hypotheses and propositions for the research were developed. Multiple linear
regression was used to test the hypotheses, and case study methodology was applied to
analyse and test the qualitative data.
Findings confirmed the hypotheses and propositions that a flat structure consisting of
business units that support manufacturing cells achieves effective lean transformations in
discrete manufacturing organisations. The research revealed the components of an
effective lean structure as open constructive leadership, an effective lean champions unit
and business units that support linked manufacturing cells. These are led by cell leaders
who cultivate supportive behaviours through cross-functional teamwork and through self-directed
work teams who run manufacturing cells or flow support functions. / Business Management / D.B.L.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:unisa/oai:uir.unisa.ac.za:10500/19589 |
| Date | 02 1900 |
| Creators | De Vries, Herbert |
| Contributors | Van der Poll, H. M. |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | 1 online resource (xxii, 864 leaves) : illustrations (some color) |
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