| Abstract [eng] |
LEAN thinking refers to waste (any activity that consumes resources without adding value) identification and its elimination from the system. Often introduction of quality management standards requires companies to investment heavily in existing systems but such investments are often perceived as unnecessary costs and therefore many companies in Lithuania do not consider application of such concepts. One possibility is to use existing internal resources for LEAN management systems in ocean freight forwarding companies in order to optimize internal processes. The efficiency of LEAN management has been analyzed in production and service industries, but its application in ocean freight forwarding in Lithuania as well as worldwide hasn’t been studied in detail in scientific literature. The idea that LEAN management could be applied to ocean freight forwarding companies is supported by its successful application in other service industries. This paper focuses on ocean freight forwarding companies process optimization using the LEAN concept, which would provide the Lithuanian transport and logistics sector with better results, both on individual company and country level. Research object: application of LEAN management in ocean freight forwarding companies. Research purpose: possibilities for process optimization using the LEAN management in ocean freight forwarding companies. Research tasks: 1. Analysis of challenges for optimization of ocean freight forwarding company process; 2. Theoretical analysis of LEAN management application solutions; 3. Preparation of theoretical model for implementation of LEAN management processes to optimize overall performance of ocean freight forwarding companies; 4. Explore applicability of LEAN management for process optimization in UAB ,,Gelna”. Methodology: comparative, systematic literature analysis and synthesis was applied in order to explore successfully applied Lean Management techniques and tools. Empirical investigation was applied during a semi-structured interview with UAB ,,Gelna” employees. Monitoring of business process to identify a waste, analysis of company documents consisting of company processes and mapping the process flow diagram. Research results: The investigation in UAB ,,Gelna” confirmed the possibility of adapting the LEAN management for process optimization in ocean freight forwarding companies. Several LEAN management tools such as process map, process flow diagram and value streaming mapping were tested. As such companies can make better use of available competencies, eliminate errors, reduce waiting times and better define responsibilities. Application of LEAN management faces numerous challenges such as high complexity, standardization of processes and employee resistance. In this case success factors for LEAN management include management engagement and effective communication. |
