Turning the lean world upside down

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to extend the People Value Stream concept further by developing a view what world would look like through eyes positive psychology employee-centred lens. authors hope provide frame for discussion, research and practical application in area. Design/methodology/approach In conceptual paper, draw on their collective 120 plus years experience with Lean Human Resource Management leading, teaching, researching consulting Findings extended here ideating how “Voice Employee” could be used enhance existing knowledge Lean. Relying range cognitive psychological theories, particularly Self-Determination Theory, show it might possible develop highly engaged workforce primarily unlocking intrinsic motivation “Self-Development Growth Cycle”. This cycle people-improvement version seminal Deming process-improvement PDCA cycle. It can applied within job crafting “Personal Cockpit”. also highlight outputs wider implications that create pull team leaders senior management wishing move real Servant Leader model. will help those supporting people-related policies procedures both organisations trade unions. Originality/value turns literature about people upside down. To best authors’ knowledge, first time an academic discusses if truly started understanding deploying explicit rather than just established Owner”-led Hoshin Kanri approach. lack these areas community limiting Lean’s engagement its sustainability.