Lean Practices and Operational Performance of Nation Newspaper Printing Division, Kenya

Abstract

This study was set out to determine the lean practices implemented at Nation Newspaper printing division, Kenya and how operational performance measures are affected by the lean practices implemented by this firm. Results of the study are based on both primary and secondary data composed through a questionnaire and operational performance measures from the firm’s records. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the implemented lean practices and for analyzing the correlation of the lean practices to operational performance, regression analysis done. The study revealed that new technology, 5S, total quality management, and standard work are the lean practices implemented so far at the firm. It was also found out that most staff are somewhat familiar with lean practices. From 2012 to 2015 a downward trend in the operational performance measures was noted, during this duration the impact of lean practices wasn’t significant on the operational measures, there seemed to be a lack of knowledge on how the practices can be of benefit to the firm. Migration to new technology in 2016 has had a big impact on the operational performance measures in a good way. The study recommends that Nation Newspaper division fully implement lean practices for the firm to be able to gauge if the practices will have an impact that will help the firm remain competitive.