Lean Manufacturing in Increasing Productivity in the Global Industrial Sector: A Systematic Review 2020–2025

Abstract

Abstract—The purpose of this research was to analyze the effect and usefulness of various Lean Manufacturing tools in the industrial sector, with special emphasis on their influence on process productivity compared to traditional methods or partially implemented practices. To this end, an exhaustive search was conducted in two of the main scientific databases, Scopus and Web of Science (WOS), initially retrieving 1,213 documents. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the sample was reduced to 40 studies considered the most relevant and impactful, with a predominant focus on the manufacturing sector. The results show that the tools Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and 5S are the most analyzed in the reviewed studies, highlighting their effectiveness in improving product quality, increasing productivity, and reducing operating costs. Likewise, it was identified that the active participation of top management and the joint commitment of different organizational areas foster a stronger implementation of the Lean approach. This comprehensive involvement strengthens organizational culture, optimizes processes, and stands out as a key factor in achieving efficient and sustainable industrial production.