A conceptual framework for the successful implementation of rapid improvement events

Rapid Improvement Events (RIE) are the most common application of Lean principles and practices in the Higher Education (HE) environment to remove waste and improve the flow of university processes. But not all RIE are successful. The literature was reviewed to identify how the steps taken before, during, and after the execution of an RIE may influence its outcomes. Findings highlight several potential errors that may contribute to the failed implementation of RIE and broader concerns about the applicability of Lean in HE.