Teaching lean management using experiential methods to improve learning

This paper describes two exercises that are used together within a graduate‐level operations management course to enhance learning. The exercises consist of the following components: 1) an in‐class service process simulation and value stream mapping exercise; 2) a team‐based analysis of a real world service process using principles learned during the in‐class simulation. Lean management principles form the basis of the simulation and project and also represent the overarching theme of the course. Students learn to apply lean methods to an actual process, get enthused about applying lean tools in their workplace, and gain experience serving in a business consulting role. To measure the effectiveness of the teaching methods, the proportion of correct responses to four short answer questions testing lean management knowledge were compared across six different sections of the course.