# Four operational tensions Author and editorial review: Dr. Ignacio Sánchez Gatell Updated: 2026-10-17 Canonical page: https://digitalgreenlean.com/knowledge/tensions.html [Download this page · Markdown](https://digitalgreenlean.com/knowledge/tensions.md)[Download the library · Markdown](https://digitalgreenlean.com/knowledge/library.md) The following examples are illustrative operational questions. They are not completed client cases or claims of measured results. The management responses summarise the framework’s approach to ongoing judgement; consult the doctoral thesis for the research context. ## Efficiency vs. Circularity Lean flow seeks stability and less waste; Circular loops can bring variable materials and reverse flows. ### Illustrative question How can a plant maintain efficient, stable throughput while increasing recovered input whose characteristics vary from batch to batch? ### A possible management response Manage material variability with dedicated Circular streams and appropriate performance criteria. Use A3 problem solving and review operational and Circular metrics together. ### Keep in view This can add local inventory or coordination effort; review whether the wider resource benefit justifies it. ## Standardization vs. Digitalization Standard work provides control; Digital systems can suggest frequent changes to how a process runs. ### Illustrative question How can operators follow a validated standard while responding to real time recommendations that call for frequent process adjustments? ### A possible management response Review standards and Digital systems in both directions. Combine gemba observation, validated process changes and development of operational knowledge and Digital literacy. ### Keep in view Dashboards do not replace human judgement, and a stable standard must still be open to learning. ## Compliance vs. Competitive Advantage A requirement can be treated as a minimum obligation or as a prompt to develop useful capabilities. ### Illustrative question How can a company reliably meet mandatory reporting rules while investing beyond the minimum to create a distinctive offer for customers? ### A possible management response Treat obligations and opportunities together. Use accountable reporting, cross-functional decisions and evidence to assess the value of Circular initiatives. ### Keep in view Innovation claims need scrutiny, while meeting a requirement alone may leave opportunities unexplored. ## Short-term performance vs. Long-term capability development Current targets compete for time and resources with skills and systems needed for future change. ### Illustrative question How can a factory meet current delivery and margin targets while freeing time and resources to build the Digital and Circular capabilities it will need later? ### A possible management response Review performance over different time horizons. Protect capability investment, use integrated planning and agree how pilots transfer into normal operations. ### Keep in view Protected experiments need active coordination to avoid becoming disconnected from daily work. Primary source: [doctoral thesis](https://digitalgreenlean.com/knowledge/sources.html#thesis), particularly the research on operational tensions and their management.