Bibliometric analysis of studies on Lean maturity assessment in SMEs.

Authors

  • André Guimarães Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal | Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | CISE -Electromechatronic Systems Research Centre, Covilhã, Portugal | Centro de Investigação em Serviços Digitais (CISeD), Viseu, PortugaL https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6346-5719
  • Pedro Reis Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal | Centro de Investigação em Serviços Digitais (CISeD), Viseu, PortugaL https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1301-6645
  • Antonio J Marques Cardoso Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal | CISE -Electromechatronic Systems Research Centre, Covilhã, Portugal https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8737-6999

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0218e.40029

Keywords:

bibliometric analysis; Lean; maturity models; VOSviewer; R-Studio´s Bibliometrix

Abstract

Introduction: Lean principles have significantly contributed to the efficiency and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, gaps remain in the scientific literature, particularly in assessing Lean implementation, its impact on performance, and analyzing management competencies and related knowledge.

Objective: Identify and analyze research trends on Lean principles and Lean maturity in SMEs, evaluating key scientific contributions, the most cited articles, the most influential authors, and research gaps that may guide future studies.

Methods: A bibliometric analysis was performed on articles published between 2010 and 2024, available in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. This analysis used the software Bibliometrix, in R Studio, and VOSviewer, allowing the visualization of the number and networks of citations, co-authorships, and keywords.

Results: The main trends and gaps in Lean maturity in SMEs are highlighted in this study. The most prominent articles, authors, and themes were identified, as well as the need for more in-depth studies on the assessment of Lean maturity and its impacts on organizational practices and the performance of SMEs.

Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the literature on lean maturity and its principles in SMEs by identifying gaps and proposing future research directions, contributing to advancing lean practices, and promoting more efficient and competitive management.

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2025-06-25

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Guimarães, A., Reis, P., & Cardoso, A. J. M. (2025). Bibliometric analysis of studies on Lean maturity assessment in SMEs . Millenium - Journal of Education, Technologies, and Health, 2(18e), e40029. https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0218e.40029

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