Lean principles, learning, and knowledge work: Evidence from a software services provider
研究精益生产在知识工作（如软件开发）中的适用性，通过对一家印度软件公司的案例和实证分析，发现精益软件项目在多数绩效指标上表现更好，并探讨了精益技术如何通过改进问题识别与解决来促进学习。
Abstract In this paper, we examine the applicability of lean production to knowledge work by investigating the implementation of a lean production system at an Indian software services firm. We first discuss specific aspects of knowledge work—task uncertainty, process invisibility, and architectural ambiguity—that call into question the relevance of lean production in this setting. Then, combining a detailed case study and empirical analysis, we find that lean software projects perform better than non‐lean software projects at the company for most performance outcomes. We document the influence of the lean initiative on internal processes and examine how the techniques affect learning by improving both problem identification and problem resolution. Finally, we extend the lean production framework by highlighting the need to (1) identify problems early in the process and (2) keep problems and solutions together in time, space, and person.