A lean strategy is rapidly becoming the dominant paradigm in manufacturing.Kennedy
and Widener (2008)use a case study to develop a theoretical framework of management
accounting and control practices for firms following a lean manufacturing strategy. We
build onKennedy and Widener (2008)by examining a structural equation model that provides evidence on the extent to which a lean manufacturing implementation is related to
five management accounting and control practices. Using survey data from 244 US companies with an interest in lean manufacturing, we find a direct positive relation between the
extent of a lean manufacturing implementation and a simplified strategic reporting system,
value stream costing, visual performance measurement information, and employee
empowerment. We find a direct negative relation with inventory tracking; however, we
find it is conditional on the extent of top management support for change in production
strategies such that firms decrease reliance on inventory tracking in the presence of strong
management support. We also conclude that the management accounting and control
practices work together as a package in a lean manufacturing environment as evidenced
by the many direct associations among the five management accounting and control
practices.