Developing a lean production organization: an Australian case study

Describes the experience of an Australian automotive parts manufacturer over the ten‐year period from 1984‐1994 as it adopted lean production methods and new work organization structures. Outlines the activities undertaken as part of a just‐in‐time programme during the second half of the 1980s and discusses the benefits achieved. Describes the company’s current initiative called TRIP (Trico Restructuring Improvement Programme) which has involved the development of work teams based on the sociotechnical system. Describes the implementation of work teams and the benefits achieved. Discusses the lessons learned from the company’s experience.