A case study of kanban implementation within the pharmaceutical supply chain. Issue 4 (3rd July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Papalexi, Marina; Bamford, David; Dehe, Benjamin
• Is Part Of: International journal of logistics. Volume 19:Issue 4(2016)
• Page Start: 239
• Page End: 255
• Publication Date: 2016-07-03
• Subjects: lean deployment -- kanban -- health-care sector; Business logistics -- Periodicals; 658.005
• DOI: 10.1080/13675567.2015.1075478
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-5567

Abstract

Abstract : This study explores the implementation of the kanban system, which is a Lean technique, within the pharmaceutical supply chain (PSC). The case study provides insights on the benefits and challenges arising from the application of this technique, within a group of cooperative pharmacists, in Greece. The research questions developed from the review of the literature were tested using evidence from field-based, action research within a pharmaceutical organisation. The reported case study contributes to the longer term debate on assessing the Lean maturity level within the health-care sector. There are two primary findings: (i) that the adoption of kanban system provides a strategic benefit and improves the quality of services. (ii) It also provides a basis for a strategy of operational change; it gives the opportunity to the organisation to move away from the current push delivery and logistics systems towards improved logistics strategy models.