Exploring the development of competence in Lean management through action learning groups: a study of the introduction of Lean to a facilities management function

The introduction of a Lean approach to management requires the development of understanding and capability. This in turn requires a structured training intervention and other supporting activities. This paper explores, through a case study, the way in which action learning groups (ALGs) supported the development of Lean capabilities in the facilities management (FM) function of a large organisation. This case study indicates that Lean can be applied in a FM context and that ALGs are effective in supporting such a development in capability. Some environmental factors are identified as having an impact on the likelihood of success in using ALGs: leadership engagement, perceived level of empowerment, organisational readiness, level of resource committed and individual readiness to be involved.