The role of process management among Nigerian manufacturing SMEs readiness to deploy Lean Initiatives: Serial and parallel mediation analysis

Volume 5 Issue 1

Abstract

Failure to assess the Lean readiness of manufacturing Small & Medium Enterprises before deploying Lean initiatives has resulted in implementation failures. In Nigeria, Lean deployment among manufacturing SMEs remains low due to a lack of proper readiness assessment. The study aims to assess the role of process management in readiness of manufacturing SMEs to deploy lean through applying serial and parallel mediation of planning & control and customer relation on the relationship between leadership, employee relations and process management. Hence, four hundred and fourteen questionnaires were distributed
to Managers of manufacturing SMEs. Using SMART PLS 3.3.2, the study develops a measurement model, structural model, and hypothesis test through bootstrapping. The study findings reveal that the nexus between leadership and process management is mediated serially through a causal link between planning & control and customer relations. So also, the nexus between employee relations and process management is serially mediated through a causal connection between planning & control and customer relations. All parallel indirect relationships were also positive and significant. The research has shown a unique insight into comprehending readiness to deploy lean through serial and parallel mediation of planning & control and customer relations. It proves that synergy and integration of process management and critical lean readiness factors are essential to successful lean deployment. It has shown that integration between all organization’s organs to process management is fundamental for manufacturing SMEs to be fully prepared for Lean initiatives. The research will guide manufacturing SMEs to evaluate the level of readiness for lean deployment and mitigate unsuccessful implementation.