Comparison of Maintenance Operations in Lean vs. Non-Lean Production Systems

摘要

Previous studies have found general differences between non-lean and lean production systems but none of them have identified the major factors in maintenance operations which are important in shifting the production system from non-lean to lean system. The main goal in this research investigation was to determine the major factors and parameters of maintenance operations most effective in enhancing production to lean system. A questionnaire was constructed and a direct mail survey was conducted in the greater Cincinnati/tri-state region. The collected data was analyzed with SAS software using contingency tables with Fisher’s Exact test and logistic regression method. The results of this research showed strong correlations between lean production system and some of the major maintenance variables and parameters such as the annual costs of maintenance personnel, parts/materials, training, and etc. The results of this study can be used as a guideline for engineers, experts and managers in order to monitor the maintenance operation during the transition process from non-lean to lean production system.