Ergolean: An integration of ergonomics and lean by structural equation modeling

Ergonomics and Lean approaches independently have significant positive effects on enterprises in terms of improved productivity, employee well-being, and overall organizational performance. Since the two approaches share similar goals and are closely interrelated in their applications, it is logical to establish an integrated management system. This study aims to link both approaches by identifying and combining the critical success factors common to both approaches that are necessary for organizational success to develop a strategic plan that focuses on ergonomics and lean principles to achieve holistic development within the organization; and based on this developing a framework to illustrate the relationship between "Lean and Ergonomics categories" and "Business Success", and employing a hypothesis model to assess the direct, indirect, and total effects of these categories on business success. The study examines the impact of six categories namely, "Employee", "Organization", "Methods, Tools and Technology", "Tasks", "Environment and Safety", and "Customer and Supplier" on business success. To achieve this, a hypothesis model was developed to illustrate the relationships between these categories and business success. Data were collected through a developed questionnaire survey targeted at managers in both the production and service sectors. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the direct, indirect, and total effects of these categories. Results indicated that the "Customer and Supplier" category had the strongest impact on business success. It was also found that the significant impacts of the "Task" and "Environment" categories are primarily due to organizational characteristics. The developed integration model is hoped to assist decision-makers in implementing strategies to reach business goals and help them remain competitive.