A Systematic Review of Financial Factors Affecting Implementation of Lean Principle in Small and Medium Enterprises of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract The application of the lean principle can play an important role in enhancing the competitiveness and performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The lean principle can reduce the cost of production, maximize resource optimization, and enhance the firm’s ability to provide superior value to the customers. The empirical research studying the effect of the implementation of lean principles in the SMEs has been widely studied. The researchers have used varying amounts of contextual variables as antecedents and consequences of the lean principle implementation in SMEs. The purpose of the present research study is to address this gap by reviewing the literature on Lean implementation in SMEs with a focus on finance-related variables as antecedents and consequences. To achieve the purpose of our study, the current research has employed a systematic literature review as a methodology to collect the studies from academic databases of ABI/INFORM world, Taylor & Francis, Emerald, Sage, Inderscience, Premier, ScienceDirect, and Scopus Business Supplies. The results of the study have yielded insight and knowledge into four different themes. Finally, an area for future research has also been developed.