Lean transformation should remove complexity before AI adds another layer
Digital tools can accelerate a process without simplifying it, leaving organizations with faster complexity rather than better decisions.
Before adding AI or another digital layer, leaders should ask whether part of the process should simply disappear.
Observation
Florent Tronquit’s LinkedIn reflection contrasts three common responses to complexity: remove it, tolerate it or add another layer.
Operational implication
Planning teams often automate workarounds, duplicate validations and legacy rules instead of redesigning the underlying process.
Decision architecture
Each step should have a clear decision purpose, owner and measurable contribution. Steps without decision value should be removed before automation.
Data requirements
Process mining, override history and workflow data can identify where complexity accumulates.
What should remain lightweight
Diagnostic analysis and local experiments can remain flexible.
What should be integrated
Only simplified, approved workflows should be embedded in APS, ERP or AI agents.
Automation should industrialize a better process—not preserve an old one at higher speed.
Source: Florent Tronquit on LinkedIn.