Most companies choose to implement either a Six Sigma or Lean initiative. However, it is worth remembering that each of these alone has limitations.

Six Sigma

Six Sigma focuses on raising the performance bar by causing a process to meet customers’ requirements more consistently, and in the process eliminate defects.

Six Sigma is most widely recognised for its DMAIC project sequence.

• Define
• Measure
• Analyse
• Improve
• Control

In its traditional form, Six Sigma does not address the problem of how to optimise process flow.

Your company has to be more response to changing customer needs in this highly competitive environment. Therefore, reduced lead times are essential for long-term success in business.

Lean Thinking

Lean Thinking on the other hand, addresses problems associated with flow through a process. It is associated with speed, efficiency and waste, and integrates very well within Six Sigma’s DMAIC model.

The Lean Thinking toolkit is perfectly aligned to its 5 principles.

• Zero Waiting
• Zero Inventory
• Customer Pull
• Maximum Flow
• Minimum Time

Implementation of Lean Six Sigma

Implemented properly, Lean and Six Sigma will work together to enable your company to continually make progress in eliminating or minimising waste and maximising growth capacity.

Sadly, most companies today miss the boat when it comes to these initiatives. Those most successful have operating systems and a strong culture of proactive improvement and growth, and these methodologies are simply tools for making that improvement and growth happen.

Without appropriate systems and in a time compressed reactive culture, Lean and Six Sigma will always struggle to survive and will never realise the potential gains they can bring to you and your company.

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