A Model for assessing Lean Production in SMEs using Combining Confirmatory Factor analysis, Cluster Analysis and LINMAP Technique

The aim of the study was to present a model for assessing lean production in small and medium industries through combination confirmatory factor analysis, clustering and LINMAP Technique. Four questions were raised to achieve the mentioned objective. The research method was descriptive survey. The statistical population included all the companies of small and medium units of basic metals and fabricated industries in East Azerbaijan province witch was added up to 245 companies, using random sampling method and Morgan's table the sample size was 181 companies. To gather the data a questionnaire researcher made was used. The reliability was 0.803. To analyze the data in the study of LINMAP, confirmatory factor analysis and clustering were used. The results for eight lean manufacturing structure included timely production, total quality management, maintenance, relations with suppliers, customer relations, human resource management, process management, and the betterment program on factory level.