Towards a lean digital transformation research framework: a literature review

Digital transformation (DT) has become a focal point within the information systems and decision support community, integrating digital technologies across various organisations. Lean Digital Transformation (LDT) is gaining traction in the academic and practitioner communities with the promise of increased DT success. However, the concept is still in an early maturity stage, with multiple conceptualisations. This study conducted a descriptive literature review of 60 articles to understand how LDT has been conceptualised and its value. The findings identify three critical perspectives in LDT research: the bridging of Lean and DT concepts, viewing DT as an enabler for Lean, and Lean as an enabler for DT. The analysis reveals a disproportionate focus on manufacturing within the LDT research landscape and LDT implementation benefits, such as improved process analysis and efficiency and output benefits, including operational excellence. The study produces an LDT Value Research Framework, highlighting the importance of LDT.