Title: A conceptual framework to excogitate agile from lean transformation

Authors: Mohamed A. Gadalla

Addresses: Department of Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology, Central Connecticut State University, 1615 Stanley Street, New Britain, CT 06050, USA

Abstract: Manufacturing system transformation becomes a necessity to overcome increased competition. Lean vs. agile transformation is an increased debatable issue in the manufacturing community. Combining lean and agile adds more myth to the issue. Continuous improvement initiatives such as: adopting lean principles, Six Sigma, QFD, TQM, etc. raise an important question about these initiatives being adequate. This work introduces the concept of excogitating agile transformation from an initiated lean transformation through finding a pathway between the two. It further extends the concept to a series of suggested transformable steps that forms roadmap for a company to reach agility.

Keywords: agile manufacturing; manufacturing systems; lean manufacturing; six sigma; mobile manufacturing; continuous improvement; agility roadmap.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAPIDM.2010.034252

International Journal of Rapid Manufacturing, 2010 Vol.1 No.3, pp.308 - 322

Published online: 30 Jul 2010 *

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