Lean waste analysis in light of principles of public administration: a study of an IFES academic project submission process

Abstract The New Public Administration (NPA), guided by the Principles of Public Administration (PPA), has incorporated several approaches to promote more effective management. Among these is the lean perspective, focused on eliminating waste and improving organizational processes. Thus, the present study aims to analyze the relationship between types of waste and PPA. To that end, the investigation uses data triangulation from the focus group, and workshop and participant observation as methodological approaches, demonstrating that process waste can compromise PPA. However, adhering to the principles can benefits process execution by reducing rework, for example. This perception contradicts common sense, which presupposes increased bureaucracy to address legal issues or constitutional principles. Thus, lean waste analysis according to PPA may prove to be relevant and a new perspective for improving organizational processes in public management.