A method for assessing the degree of implementation of Lean Production

This work proposes a method for evaluating the progress of Lean Production in companies, taking into account the adherence of the production system evaluated to the ideal model recommended in the literature. This research considered the premise that not all lean practices are universally applicable and that it is sometimes necessary to carry out a study of possible modifications so that lean production can be adapted to the organisations' production systems. Based on the literature review carried out, the necessary requirements for a lean production evaluation method were identified. Subsequently, different existing methods were analysed and it was observed that none of them fully met all the requirements. A new method was therefore developed that met the proposed requirements. From the case study, it was possible to conclude that the proposed method is suitable for its purpose, establishing a relationship between the production system evaluated and the ideal Lean Production model. The method proved capable of identifying the characteristics of the production system analysed, assessing which lean practices are necessary and to what degree they should be implemented.