What is the LEM?
The Lean Enterprise Model (LEM) is a systematic framework designed to
organize the research
results of the Lean Aircraft Initiative (LAI) and communicate these
to its industrial and
government partners. It also serves as a model and catalyst for change
in the defense aircraft
industry.
The LEM encompasses lean enterprise principles and practices and is
populated by
research-based benchmarking data derived from surveys, case studies,
and other research
activities. Available only to LAI consortium members, the LEM serves
as a reference tohelp LAI
consortium members better understand the leanness of their own organizations
and processes. It
is intended to provide insights as to where they might direct lean
efforts in the future.
The LEM is:
A framework for disseminating LAI research
results to its consortium members.
A reference tool to assist in the self-assessment
of leanness.
A guide for identifying leverage points for
organizational change.
A tool to encourage the development of new
lean paradigms relating to the design,
development, and production of military aerospace
products.
The LEM is not:
A checklist by which organizations in the value
chain are to be judged and found lean or
not.
An exhaustive empirical validation of all
lean practices.
A "how-to" or "cookbook" guide for implementing
lean practices.
Team Members
Deneen Silviano
Goeff Bentley
Tom Shields
Research Assistants
Abhinav Taneja
taneja@mit.edu
Affiliated Groups
Lean Aerospace Initiative
Last Updated: 01/15/98