Application of interpretive structural modelling for analysis of factors influencing lean remanufacturing practices

The contemporary manufacturing scenario witnesses the adoption of lean remanufacturing concepts in a concerted manner. Lean remanufacturing is a newly evolved manufacturing process concerned with manufacturing and remanufacturing of products to effectively utilise available energy and resources, while reducing wastes in the process and thereby increasing efficiency. The advantages include process streamlining coupled with end-of-life decisions. A structural model needs to be developed to clarify the interrelationships among factors influencing lean remanufacturing practices. In this study, interpretive structural modelling method has been used to develop the structural model depicting interrelationships and most dominant and least dominant factors. Twenty factors are being identified based on expert opinion from 35 Indian automotive component remanufacturing organisations. The identified most dominant factors include a strong top management commitment with proper strategy selection, long-term vision and participation and a strong understanding of the current product and process designs. MICMAC analysis has been conducted to categorise the factors. The inferences based on the study have been derived. The novel aspect of this study is that it presents the development of structural model to identify the most dominant factors influencing the implementation of lean remanufacturing principles.