Navigating Value Prospection to Favor Manufacturing in a Low-Complexity System from the Socio-Technical Theory

Implementing Lean Startup (LS) and Lean Product Development (LPD) can significantly impact innovation when developing new products and, consequently, the manufacturing stage. This study empirically conducts ideation and value prospection phases to favor the manufacturing stage in a low-complexity system of meliponiculture (stingless beekeeping) through the lens of socio-technical system theory. A case study was conducted through three main phases (ideation, value prospection and learning) by employing seven lean practices and involving more than 160 participants in a survey to conduct hypothesis testing. The findings from the application of the questionnaire were obtained through Cronbach’s Alpha to assess the reliability and Chi-square to test the hypothesis. The study’s findings state the importance of socio-technical theory in a low-complexity system, integrating LS and LPD to develop sustainable, customer-centered, viable bee boxes and informative booklets. It addresses a solution to promote income generation for vulnerable coastal communities, considering the interaction between social and technical aspects essential to support the manufacturing stage ahead. The study provides a holistic perspective through the interplay of people, technologies and the environment in the initial stages of product development to anticipate promising scenarios for effective and efficient manufacturing processes.