What Stifles Lean Management (LM) Adoption? An Exploration and Evaluation of Factors Using the Combined Shannon Entropy-ISM Method

Abstract

This study examines the roadblocks in deploying lean management (LM) in the Indian automobile industry, prioritizes these roadblocks based on industry inputs, and uses the Shannon Entropy measure for assigning weights to these roadblocks. This research also identifies the relationship among variables for roadblocks in LM implementation. In combination with the existing literature and further industrial experts’ opinions, 14 roadblocks were identified that play a prominent role in LM implementation. The variables identified for the research were assigned weights using Shannon entropy. Subsequently, the interpretative structural model (ISM) was applied to identify interrelationships among specific roadblocks. The article develops an argument to prioritize the roadblocks to implementing LM in the Indian automobile industry. ISM results indicate that ‘lack of knowledge about LM’ and ‘uncertainty of vendor response’ are the main roadblocks in lean implementation. The identification, prioritization and significance of various roadblocks in the Indian automobile industry and documentation of the interrelationships and dynamics among specific roadblocks will enable managers to reduce waste along with a focus on areas for improvement.