Applying lean thinking concepts to new product development

Abstract

Lean Thinking can be introduced in the enterprise to ensure an optimal transformation to a lean environment. There is a need in European manufacturing companies of a new model that implies a further stage of lean manufacturing. This paper outlines the first results of a current European project (LeanPPD-Lean Product and Process Development) which aims to develop a new paradigm with its associate methodology and tools based on applying lean thinking concepts in Product Design and Development field. To tackle this objective, a new model will be developed which consider entire product life cycle, providing knowledge based user-centric design and development environment to support value creation to the customers in terms of innovation and customisation, quality as well as sustainable and affordable products. Several of the scientific and technical objectives settled have already met. This paper constitutes a whole explanation of the LeanPPD model proposed by the project consortium and outlines its four main building blocks providing better understanding on how the project addresses these objectives