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Purpose The purpose of this research paper is to identify the enablers for Lean implementation in the manufacturing sector, to establish a relationship among them using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and to rank them using interpretive ranking process (IRP). Design/methodology/approach The research paper presents a blend of theoretical framework and practical applications. In the paper, eight enablers of Lean production are identified from literature survey and experts’ opinion. These include 5S, value stream mapping (VSM), just in time, single minute exchange of die, computer-integrated manufacturing, concurrent engineering, training and enterprise resource planning. ISM is used to obtain a structural relationship among these enablers of Lean. MICMAC analysis is used to identify the driving power and dependence of the variables. Further, IRP is used to rank the lean enablers with respect to key performance areas. Findings The ISM- and IRP-based models indicate that “training” is the most significant factor for the Lean implementation process in manufacturing sector. The MICMAC analysis also shows that “training” has the maximum driving power and the least dependence and hence has strong managerial significance. The management should place high priority on tackling this criterion. VSM occupies the top level in the ISM hierarchy, indicating that all other Lean enablers should act in unison to make VSM implementation a success. Originality/value Enablers are the building blocks for deployment of the Lean concept. To know the key enablers and relationship among them can help many organizations to develop Lean competencies. This study is perhaps among the first few that focuses on two modeling procedures based on interpretive logic, i.e. ISM and IRP. The paper provides useful insights to the Lean production implementers, consultants and researchers.

Purpose-Green business models (GBMs) in the construction sector represent the logic of green value creation and capture. Hence, the call to examine GBMs is growing ever louder. The aim is to identify benefits of GBMs by adopting five essential elements of the GBM from the literature: green value proposition (GVP); target group (TG); key activities (KA); key resources (KR); and financial logic (FL). Design/methodology/approach Nineteen semi-structured interviews are conducted with construction sector practitioners and academics in the UK. Thematic analysis is used to obtain benefits of GBMs. Further, the Interpretive Ranking Process (IRP) is used to examine which elements of the GBM have a dominant role in providing benefits to construction businesses. Findings-The benefits are grouped into three themes: credibility/reputation benefits; financial benefits; and long-term viability benefits. The IRP model shows that the element of KR is the most important when evaluated against these three benefit themes. Implications-Linking GBM elements and benefits will help companies in the construction sector to analyse the business case of embracing environmental sustainability. Originality/value-This research is one of the few empirical academic works investigating the benefits of GBMs in the construction sector. The IRP method is a novel contribution to GBMs and construction research.

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