Using Process Modelling Tools to Support Lean Management Implementation

Authors

  • Mariana Costa Department of Economics, Management, Industrial Engineering and Tourism, University of Aveiro, Portugal
  • Liliana Ávila Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies, Department of Economics, Management, Industrial Engineering and Tourism, University of Aveiro, Portugal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24425/mper.2025.157212

Abstract

This paper aims to demonstrate that the implementation of Lean Management (LM) can benefit from prior process modelling and redesign using Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN). Single case study research was conducted, which allowed the detailed documentation of the operations of a wind blade manufacturer and the evaluation of the applicability of combining Business Process Management (BPM) and LM, which are two different process management approaches. BPMN allowed the identification of handoffs in the production process and the reassignment of tasks to eliminate waste. It provides a visual representation of process flows, facilitating a common understanding of the processes and providing a solid basis for discussing process improvements. As a result of the interventions, the cycle time of the target processes was reduced by up to around 30%. This work enriches the still scarce literature that crosses both fields. It also responds to the claims for more case study research on LM and studies with business collaboration.

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Published

2025-12-30

How to Cite

Costa, Mariana, and Liliana Ávila. “Using Process Modelling Tools to Support Lean Management Implementation”. Management and Production Engineering Review, vol. 16, no. 4, Dec. 2025, pp. [nr art. 5], s. 1-13, doi:10.24425/mper.2025.157212.

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