OD and lean with the advent of AI: Evolving change models for industry 5.0

Abstract

This study examines how Organizational Development (OD), Lean practices, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) intersect to shape transformation in the era of Industry 5.0. The purpose is to reframe traditional change models by highlighting human-centric innovation, ethical AI integration, and sustainable organizational resilience. A qualitative synthesis approach was employed, combining systematic literature review, framework integration, and case analysis across manufacturing and healthcare contexts. The findings demonstrate that Tucker’s systemic alignment framework and Kotter’s 8-Step process can be adapted as complementary tools, with AI functioning as a cognitive amplifier that enhances decision-making, employee engagement, and strategic agility. Practical implications suggest that organizations can achieve both operational efficiency and cultural sustainability by embedding AI into Lean and OD initiatives in ways that preserve human dignity, foster resilience, and align technological advancement with ethical leadership.