(Productivity Press: New York) -- The lean concepts and principles described in John Nicholas’ Lean Production for Competitive Advantage: A Comprehensive Guide to Lean Methodologies and Management Practices, (Productivity Press, 2010) have revolutionized manufacturing practice and business conduct in a manner similar to what Henry Ford’s system did for mass manufacturing. Lean production, however, involves more than adopting methods and procedures; it also requires a change in management philosophy that emphasizes relationship-building, trust, and responsibility given to frontline workers and suppliers.

Based on three decades of Nicholas’ teaching experience, Lean Production for Competitive Advantage introduces the lean philosophy and illustrates the effective application of lean tools with real-world case studies.

From fundamental concepts to integrated planning and control in pull production and the supply chain, the text provides a complete introduction to lean production. Coverage includes small batch production, setup reduction, pull production, preventive maintenance, standard operations, as well as synchronizing and scheduling lean operations. Detailing the key principles and practices of lean production, the text also:

• Illustrates effective implementation techniques with case studies from a range of industries
• Includes questions and completed problems in each chapter
• Explains how to effectively partner with suppliers and employees to accomplish productivity goals

Designed for students with a basic foundation in production and operations management, the text provides a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of lean. It also offers practitioners the practical know-how to implement lean’s culture of continuous improvement on the shop floor or office, creating a heightened sense of responsibility and pride in all stakeholders involved, and enhancing productivity and efficiency to improve the bottom line.

Nicholas is professor of operations management at Loyola University, where he teaches production and operations management, health care management, project management, and global operations management. As a management consultant, he has conducted productivity improvement projects and training programs in process improvement, quality circles, project management, and teamwork.

He is the author of numerous academic and technical trade publications and four books, including The Portal to Lean Production: Principles and Practices for Doing More with Less (Auerbach Publications, 2005) and Project Management for Business, Engineering and Technology: Principles and Practices (Butterworth-Heinemann, 2004).

Prior to Loyola, Nicholas held the positions of test engineer and team lead for Lockheed/Martin Corp., senior business analyst at Bank of America, and research associate at Argonne National Laboratory.