'Lean' in this title refers to operations management, the Toyota Production System, and its derivatives. The book is a companion volume to The Lean Toolbox which focused on operational tools and techniques whereas this book is focused on the essential human aspects of Lean transformation.

The book is a sourcebook for practitioners and managers covering a wide range of concepts, providing sufficient information to grasp the essentials of each topic and giving leads to further reading. The Chapters include Antecedents and myths, Established Lean people practices, Eight models of people at work, Systems aspects, Psychology aspects, Engagement, Problems, Decisions, Learning, Leadership, Teams, Organisations, Ergonomics.

The work of more than 150 authorities from operations, psychology, systems, and change are drawn on to give a comprehensive overview. The authors' extensive knowledge and experience complement each section.

As with The Lean Toolbox, the text is concise, written for busy managers who seek both a guide and a quick reference. .