Winner of the 2026 Shingo Publication Award and the 2026 International Lean Six Sigma Institute (ILSSI) book award!
We stand at the threshold of a transformative era where the convergence of Lean methodologies and artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining operational excellence. This book is a pioneering exploration of this integration, offering a roadmap for organizations seeking to harness AI’s potential while preserving the human-centric values at the heart of Lean. It provides a deep dive into how Lean principles – focused on efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement – can be enhanced through AI-driven intelligence, agility, and innovation. More than just a technical guide, this book is an invitation to rethink the future of work, leadership and culture in an AI-powered world.
Lean-AI: A Humanistic Integration of Lean and AI empowers readers with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of Industry 5.0+. Through real-world case studies, practical strategies, and in-depth discussions, this book illustrates how organizations can leverage AI to accelerate Lean transformation, enhance human performance, and drive sustainable growth. Readers will gain actionable knowledge on integrating AI with Lean tools such as 5S, poka-yoke, single minute exchange of dies, total productive maintenance, and value stream mapping, among others. The book also highlights the critical role of leadership and culture in ensuring AI-driven Lean implementations uplift rather than replace human capabilities.
This book is designed for forward-thinking innovators, business leaders, Lean practitioners, and AI enthusiasts eager to explore the synergy between technology and human-centric process improvement. Whether you are an executive driving digital transformation, a Lean expert looking to modernize methodologies, or a professional seeking to understand AI’s role in operational excellence, this book provides a strategic guide to mastering Lean-AI integration. It is an essential read for those ready to challenge conventional paradigms and embrace the future of efficiency, collaboration and intelligent innovation.
<p><strong>Adil Dalal</strong> is President and CEO of Pinnacle Process Solutions, Intl, LLC. He holds two master's degrees, a doctorate in business administration, and multiple certifications in leadership, coaching, quality, Lean Six Sigma, project management, and digital transformation. With more than 20 years of global experience, he has led over 350 enterprise-wide transformations across 25 industries and five continents. He advises executives and government leaders on leadership, organizational excellence, and business transformation. Recognized by MSN as one of the Top 15 Entrepreneurs Disrupting Their Industry, he serves on the Forbes Executive Coaching Council and is a Platinum CEO Life Member. A sought-after keynote speaker, he has delivered more than 100 presentations worldwide, including TEDx Brussels and the UK House of Lords. His book, The 12 Pillars of Project Excellence, received the ASQ Crosby Zero-Defect Medal, the Shingo Research Award, and the Axiom Best Business Book Award. Dr. Dalal is also the creator of Sensei Leadership, iLean Technology, iCulture, The V-Factor, and Pinnacle Performance Zone.
<p><strong>Elizabeth Cudney, PhD, CLSSMBB</strong> is President of Cudney Consulting Group, LLC, and Professor of Data Analytics at Maryville University. She earned a masters in mechanical engineering, an MBA, and a doctorate in engineering management. Dr. Cudney received the 2025 ASQ Grant Medal for leadership in curriculum design and delivery. Her honors include the 2026 and 2024 International Lean Six Sigma Institute Book of the Year Award, 2023 and 2021 Walter E. Masing Book Prize from the International Academy for Quality, the 2022 and 2018 ASQ Crosby Medal, and the 2021 Bernard R. Sarchet Award for lifetime achievement in engineering management education. She is an ASQ Fellow, ASEM Fellow, IISE Fellow, and Academician of the International Academy for Quality. Dr. Cudney has published 18 books and more than 150 peer-reviewed journal articles.
