Challenges of implementing lean principles in product development – the case of Visual planning

Paper in proceeding, 2011

The methods proposed by Lean product development are considered to dramatically improve companies’ competitive position. However, few studies have been made on the implementation of these methods. This paper explores the factors that influence the implementation of the Lean method Visual planning in four product development organisations. This method promises improved communication and coordination in product development teams, and is often a first step of a Lean implementation. The results show that team characteristics, team culture and the role of management are three important factors that can make or break a successful implementation of the method.