Global HR research and advisory firm McLean & Company has released new research insights designed to demystify Lean methodology for HR leaders. The report, Get Started With Lean in HR, provides a practical framework for applying Lean principles to core HR functions without requiring a full-scale transformation or specialized expertise.

Lean methodology has traditionally been associated with manufacturing and operations, but its core principles — respect for people and continuous improvement — are increasingly relevant to HR. McLean & Company’s latest research shows how HR teams can use Lean strategically to improve efficiency across functions such as recruitment, onboarding, and service delivery.

A Practical, Scalable Approach to Lean in HR

Rather than prescribing sweeping organizational change, Get Started With Lean in HR breaks Lean down into four core components: mindset, principles, tools, and competencies. This approach helps HR leaders start small, build momentum, and achieve measurable improvements over time.

The research emphasizes that Lean is not about cost-cutting or workforce reductions. Instead, it focuses on minimizing process waste, improving flow, and ensuring HR professionals spend more time on meaningful, value-added work.

“Lean offers a scalable, human-centered framework for doing more with less, without sacrificing the employee experience,” said James Kim, Manager, HR Research & Advisory Services at McLean & Company. “By reducing inefficiencies and empowering HR teams to focus on what truly adds value, Lean helps improve both organizational performance and employee wellbeing.”

Small Changes, Measurable Impact

The research highlights how even modest improvements — such as streamlining interview scheduling or simplifying onboarding workflows — can significantly reduce workload pressure while generating meaningful returns. Lean is presented as a spectrum of application, ranging from incremental enhancements to larger-scale transformations.

McLean & Company also addresses common misconceptions, including the belief that Lean is only relevant during financial crises or inevitably leads to headcount reductions. Instead, Lean is positioned as a continuous improvement mindset that helps HR teams operate more effectively and sustainably.

Key Insights From the Research

• 47% of HR professionals report increased stress compared to the previous year, and 95% of HR leaders cite excessive workload as a top challenge.
• Highly effective HR teams are more than twice as likely to drive outcomes such as innovation, adaptability, and productivity.
• Capacity constraints remain the top barrier preventing HR from delivering on strategic priorities.

Enabling HR to Focus on What Matters Most

The insights in Get Started With Lean in HR empower HR teams to lead with clarity and intention, unlocking capacity to focus on strategic priorities that drive long-term business success.

To support HR teams beginning their Lean journey, McLean & Company also provides a reflection guide, a catalog of commonly used Lean tools, and real-world examples from global organizations that have successfully applied Lean within HR.