Waste analysis framework for lean production: pilot study in a healthcare setting

Zahra Akrami, Seyed-Hadi Mirghaderi and Ali Naghi Mosleh Shirazi

International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, 2021, vol. 34, issue 1, 102-122

Abstract: This paper utilises the constructive research approach for developing a systematic and step-by-step waste analysis framework. The purpose is to facilitate the implementation of lean operations in organisations. The suggested framework consists of seven steps: 1) finding the cause of wastes; 2) finding solutions; 3) diagramming the relationship among wastes, causes, and solutions; 4) estimating the cost of wastes; 5) determining the weight of wastes; 6) clustering wastes; 7) ranking waste clusters. By implementing the proposed framework in a hospital ward, which tends to be a lean healthcare system, we found that there are three clusters in 20 wastes. Then, we ranked the clusters concerning the cost and importance of the wastes. Real-world results confirmed that this method has the capability of providing a scientific way for the selection of a cluster of wastes with higher priority than others and subsequently, facilitating removal of the cluster.

Keywords: muda; waste analysis; waste elimination; lean; lean production; lean healthcare; lean hospital; waste analysis framework; WAF; constructive research approach; CRA. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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