Prioritizing Muda: A Sandcone Model for Lean Waste Elimination

Abstract

Lean principles aim to improve processes by identifying and eliminating waste at the source. Increased competitive pressure has pushed companies towards performance improvement and cost reduction. Lean gains prominence from the success of Toyota Automobiles and has since been adapted in various industries and sectors. However, alike any other improvement methodology, the success of lean implementation is also high debated. Failures in lean implementation are attributed to backsliding, lack of commitment and management focus. While analysing and identifying the lean wastes are highly researched and discussed, prioritization and selection of the appropriate lean waste for improvement is ill defined. This paper proposes a theoretical model in lines with the widely adapted sandcone model of operational performance. The model would provide a means through which lean waste can be prioritized and selected for improvement, to create operational capabilities and sustain lean practices in the organization.