Table 6 Comparison on Lean tools and methods adoption
Tools and Methods | US (1) | Italy (2) | t-test difference | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
N | Mean [SD] | N | Mean [SD] | (1)–(2) | |
5 s: redesign of physical workspace | 129 | 3.977 [1.320] | 35 | 4.143 [1.115] | −0.166 |
A3 thinking | 129 | 3.341 [1.355] | 35 | 3.114 [1.255] | 0.227 |
Analysis tools such as scatter plots, Pareto charts | 129 | 3.705 [1.208] | 35 | 3.800 [1.256] | −0.095 |
Daily huddles | 129 | 4.628 [1.409] | 35 | 4.171 [1.014] | 0.456 |
Just-in-time process or inventory management | 129 | 3.891 [1.427] | 35 | 2.743 [1.221] | 1.149*** |
Kaizen improvement events | 129 | 3.318 [1.566] | 35 | 2.143 [1.264] | 1.175*** |
Mistake-proofing | 129 | 3.318 [1.256] | 35 | 2.886 [1.367] | 0.432 |
Redesign for continuous flow [pull system, etc.] | 130 | 3.469 [1.325] | 35 | 3.571 [1.290] | −0.102 |
PDSA | 129 | 4.388 [1.239] | 35 | 4.171 [1.014] | 0.216 |
Six Sigma DMAIC methodology | 130 | 3.115 [1.622] | 35 | 2.971 [1.382] | 0.144 |
Standard work | 130 | 3.923 [1.198] | 35 | 4.086 [1.040] | −0.163 |
Training in process improvement tools for employees | 129 | 3.310 [1.535] | 35 | 2.714 [1.467] | 0.596* |
Value stream process mapping | 130 | 3.477 [1.342] | 35 | 3.629 [1.215] | −0.152 |
Visual management such as huddle boards | 128 | 4.070 [1.421] | 35 | 3.743 [1.245] | 0.327 |