Applying Lean Management Solutions in the Context of the Organisational Culture of Energy Sector Enterprises

Abstract

Lean management has become a very popular trend in the area of work, production and management processes reorganisation. It has an impact on attitude to, and quality of, work, cost-effectiveness and the organisation itself. The traditional understanding of lean management originated in Japan (Toyota Motor Corporation). An analysis of an organisation and its organisational culture clearly shows that energy sector enterprises in Poland are going through a transformation. It is increasingly common to observe organisational measures taken to improve external and internal corporate image. The major elements shaping organisational culture, and the applicable guidelines, are more and more often the basic work tool for managers. In the energy industry, which functions in a very specific way, a mere introduction of lean management in its traditional form may prove ineffective. The article discusses differences between a traditional enterprise and an enterprise operating in the energy sector in terms of implementing lean management solutions. The directions and aspects to be considered when introducing lean management culture are also described.