Is Lean Management doomed in the age of Innovation?

Despite debates on its obsolescence, Lean Management remains a popular methodology. While it focuses on incremental changes to improve efficiency and quality, it has limitations such as deterring innovation. Innovation, on the other hand, is seen as a complementary approach. Lean and Innovation Management share critical factors, which makes them stronger when combined. A study on the implementation of Lean in international manufacturing found that an innovation orientation has positive impacts on continuous improvement initiatives and innovation performance. Leaders understand the positive combination of Lean and Innovation, and companies must achieve a balance between the two to evolve in an agile, consistent and continuous way.