Work

A Conceptual Lean–Sustainability Model for Industrial SMEs

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle to integrate Lean practices with sustainability due to high methodological complexity and the frequent neglect of the social dimension. This study develops the Simple, Sustainable, and Inclusive Lean Model (SSILM), a conceptual framework designed to bridge these gaps. The methodology involved a systematic meta-evaluation of 31 existing Lean–Sustainability models against 14 operational criteria tailored for SMEs. Findings reveal that current models lack social integration and practical scalability for resource-constrained environments. The proposed SSILM is structured in six phases, from characterization to analysis, prioritizing low-cost participatory tools and strategic innovation. This study contributes a theoretical bridge between operational efficiency and the Triple Bottom Line, specifically emphasizing the social pillar. As a conceptual paper, its primary limitation is the lack of empirical field testing, which establishes a clear roadmap for future longitudinal research in industrial contexts.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su18083826

Authors: Elena Terradillos, João Matias, Helena V. G. Navas, Olga Costa, David Mendes

Institutions: Universidade Politécnica de Setúbal, University of Aveiro, Universidade Nova de Lisboa

Language: English

Topic: Quality and Supply Management

Subfield: Management Information Systems

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896