Press Release

Assessing the Effect of Leadership Styles on an Organization’s Lean Manufacturing Maturity Level

What is the study about? You are invited to participate in a research study being conducted for a dissertation at Northcentral University in Prescott, Arizona. The study is interested in your thoughts and opinions about leadership styles and your company’s lean manufacturing maturity level. Lean manufacturing maturity level measures the degree to which an organization effectively uses lean principles and practices. You were selected because you are a member in one of the Lean groups on LinkedIn. There is no deception in this study.

What will be asked of me? You will be asked to answer some questions where you check off rating scales about your leadership style and the degree to which your company effectively uses lean principles and practices. The survey contains 104 multiple choice questions and it will take about 20-25 minutes for you to fill out the survey.

Who is involved? The following people are involved in this research project and may be contacted at any time: Thomas Langlois (researcher) and Dr. Daphne Halkias (supervising faculty chairperson).

Are there any risks? Risks to participants of the proposed study will be minimal. You will not be exposed to either physical or psychological harm during the study.

What are some benefits? There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this research. No incentives are offered. An improved understanding of the types of leadership style associated with successful lean change initiatives may increase the likelihood of success as leaders within U.S. organizations attempt to implement and sustain lean practices and effectively compete in a global economy. You can email the researcher for a copy of the results.

Is the study anonymity/ confidential? The data collected in this study are anonymous and confidential. Your name or personal information will not be collected. Only the researchers in this study will see the data.

Can I stop participating the study? You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

What if I have questions about my rights as a research participant or complaints? If you have questions about your rights as a research participant, any complaints about your participation in the research study, or any problems that occurred in the study, please contact the researchers identified in the consent form. Alternatively, if you prefer to talk to someone outside the study team, you can contact Northcentral University’s Institutional Review Board at irb@ncu.edu or 1-888-327-2877 ex 8014.

We would be happy to answer any question that may arise about the study. Please direct your questions or comments to: Thomas Langlois T.Langlois2391@email.ncu.edu (603) 620-1211 and Dr. Daphne Halkias dhalkias@ncu.edu (693) 249-2344.

I have read the above description for the Assessing the Effect of Leadership Styles on an Organization’s Lean Manufacturing Maturity Level study. I understand what the study is about and what is being asked of me. By pressing AGREE, I agree to participate in the study, and I will be directed to the on-line survey.