Lean production tools and decision latitude enable conditions for innovative learning in organizations: A multilevel analysis. (March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fagerlind Ståhl, Anna-Carin; Gustavsson, Maria; Karlsson, Nadine; Johansson, Gun; Ekberg, Kerstin
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 47(2015:Mar.)
• Page Start: 285
• Page End: 291
• Publication Date: 2015-03
• Subjects: Psychosocial work conditions -- Job resources -- Learning climate; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2014.10.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: The effect of lean production on conditions for learning is debated. This study aimed to investigate how tools inspired by lean production (standardization, resource reduction, visual monitoring, housekeeping, value flow analysis) were associated with an innovative learning climate and with collective dispersion of ideas in organizations, and whether decision latitude contributed to these associations. A questionnaire was sent out to employees in public, private, production and service organizations ( n = 4442). Multilevel linear regression analyses were used. Use of lean tools and decision latitude were positively associated with an innovative learning climate and collective dispersion of ideas. A low degree of decision latitude was a modifier in the association to collective dispersion of ideas. Lean tools can enable shared understanding and collective spreading of ideas, needed for the development of work processes, especially when decision latitude is low. Value flow analysis played a pivotal role in the associations. Highlights: Innovative learning climate and sharing ideas is necessary for innovative learning. The use of lean tools can facilitate questioning, new thinking, and sharing ideas. Also decision latitude can enable a climate for innovative learning. Lean tools enable sharing of ideas especially when decision latitude is low. Especially value flow analysis can create an arena for shared understanding.