Applying Sociotechnical Systems Theory to Examine the Values of Lean Practices in the Context of Container Shipping

Abstract

Research at the nexus of maritime management and operational performance suggests that lean management may benefit from sociotechnical systems theory (STS) in terms of long-term business performance. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which lean management practices can improve operational performance. This study aims to assess the relationships between lean policy, lean practices, operational performance, and business performance in the context of container shipping. The examined data are acquired from 212 respondents in Taiwan, and a structural equation model is employed to evaluate the hypotheses. The results show that lean policy and practice positively impact both lean social practices and lean technical practices. Lean social practices and lean technical practices are positively related to operational performance. Operational performance is associated with business performance. In particular, lean policy has a direct relationship with operational performance. Based on lean policy is easily able to directly improve its lean social practices and lean technical practices, proving lean policy can strongly push organizations towards further enhanced performance. Although it will be ups and downs along the way in terms of business performance, improving long-term business value and cost advantage is very importance. Thus, this article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the effect of lean practices and discusses practical implications for container shipping companies.