A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF LEAN ACCOUNTING IN MANUFACTURING AND HEALTHCARE SECTORS

Lean accounting is an emerging strategy that is being used by enterprises to achieve their business objectives. Several studies are reporting the implementation of lean accounting in manufacturing and healthcare sectors. However, no study has been conducted to compare lean accounting implementation in both sectors. This research reviews, analyzes and compares lean accounting implementation in manufacturing and healthcare sectors. A qualitative approach based on literature review and content analysis is used. Data is collected from secondary sources including journal articles and publications on practical case studies of lean implementation in both manufacturing and healthcare sectors. The analysis of the data reveals that three tools are commonly used for lean accounting implementation in both sectors, namely, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma. It is also found that top manager commitment, flexible organizational culture, proper planning, and training are common requirements for the success of lean accounting implementation in manufacturing and healthcare. With regard to the challenges in implementing lean accounting in both sectors, the study discovers the existence of two common barriers including the shortage of people with knowledge of lean accounting principles and the lack of step-by-step guidelines on how to implement these principles. Finally, the study reveals that the outcomes of lean accounting implementation in both sectors are customers’ satisfaction, cost reduction, and flexible communication amongst the staffs within the organization. The study is a contribution to knowledge in that it investigates and highlights the lean adoption practices specific to each of the manufacturing and healthcare sectors, as well as the commonalities of lean practices in both sectors.