Research Award
The Shingo Research Award is for research (in English) making a significant contribution to the extension of understanding and knowledge of the philosophy, principles, or methods of enterprise excellence consistent with the Shingo Model. This can either be conceptual or based on empirical research activity.
Nomination Process
Nominations for this award are submitted by leading scholars from around the world who specialize in Lean, operational excellence, and improvement research. The Shingo Research Advisory Committee evaluates each nomination against established criteria to determine whether the work merits recognition by the Shingo Institute.
Research Award Recipients
2026
Becoming a Learning Organization While Enhancing Performance: The Case of LEGO
By Thomas Borup Kristensen, Henrik Saabye, and Amy Edmondson
Press Release
2026
Values and Behaviors of Effective Lean Managers
By Dr. Desirée H. van Dun, Dr. Jeff N. Hicks, and Dr. Celeste P.M. Wilderom
Press Release
2023
Does Lean Improve Labor Standards? Management and Social Performance in the Nike
By Distelhorst, Hainmueller, and Locke
Press Release
2020
What to Expect from a Corporate Lean Program
By Torbjørn Netland and Kasra Ferdows
Press Release
2018
Lean Manufacturing and Firm Performance
By Rosemary Fullerton, Frances Kennedy, and Sally Widener
Press Release
2017
The Routledge Companion to Lean Management
By Torbjørn H. Netland & Daryl J. Powell
Press Release
2015
Value Stream Mapping: How to Visualize Work and Align Leadership
By Karen Martin and Mike Osterling
Press Release