Demystifying the Lean 6.0 concept: integrating Industry 6.0 technologies with lean culture for innovation

Purpose This research paper aims to examine how companies are preparing to adopt Industry 6.0 (I6.0) and Lean Culture by identifying challenges, best practices, and the maturity of their integration with Knowledge Management (KM). It proposes the concept of Lean 6.0, which integrates Lean principles with advanced and sustainable I6.0 technologies to promote the creation, preservation, and dissemination of organisational knowledge. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through a questionnaire survey. Based on 103 valid responses, Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling (CB-SEM) was used to test four hypothesised relationships among Lean, I6.0, and KM. Findings The findings suggest that companies with higher Lean maturity are more likely to successfully adopt I6.0 practices, which support knowledge preservation and dissemination through technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Digital Twins. Practical implications The findings integrate human and technological dimensions within I6.0, demonstrating that the synergy between Lean and I6.0 strengthens knowledge management and fosters sustainable innovation in organisations. Originality/value This study provides an integrated investigation of Lean Culture and I6.0, highlighting their combined effects on Knowledge Management.