Useful paths for identifying Lean Six Sigma improvement opportunities

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor E. Kane
Keyword(s):  
Process Improvement ◽  
Scientific Method ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Testable Hypothesis ◽  
Tool Selection ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Leadership Support ◽  
Investment Tool ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Current List

PurposeThe goal of this work is to clarify seven useful DMAIC Analyze phase options for developing process improvement opportunities required for successful projects.Design/methodology/approachUsing a scientific method problem solving structure, IO possibilities are shown to be predicted by rejecting a conceptual testable hypothesis.FindingsSeven analysis paths are identified that enable learners to develop multiple IO discovery strategies and to narrow tool selection options. Four benefit areas for identifying analysis paths are given: improved training, continuous improvement foundation, leadership support and framework clarification.Research limitations/implicationsAny starting list of analysis paths for developing IOs would be incomplete. The diversity of application experiences and tools will add to the current list.Practical implicationsLearners participating in LSS activities are aware of management's expectation that they will develop IOs to justify the LSS investment. Tool-focused training may leave some learners unclear about the multiple possible sources for IOs. Identifying useful analysis paths with associated tools for IO discovery will address any learner's Analyze phase uncertainty and facilitate expanded opportunities.Originality/valueAny successful LSS project must discover IOs to develop improvement actions. Clarifying IO discovery alternatives will encourage team brainstorming on Analyze phase investigative options. This framework identifying LSS improvement paths will assist practitioners in training and communicating with leadership and learners the range of approaches for developing improvement actions.

A critical perspective on the changing patterns of Lean Six Sigma research

2019 ◽  
Vol 68 (1) ◽  
pp. 248-258 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bryan Rodgers ◽  
Jiju Antony ◽  
Sandeep Gupta
Keyword(s):  
Process Improvement ◽  
Six Sigma ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
Research Activity ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Changing Patterns ◽  
Integrated Approaches ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to utilise the research patterns of the most prolific contributors to Lean and Six Sigma methodologies over a 15-year period to inform the discussion on whether the methodologies should be or are being integrated. Design/methodology/approach Structured searches using keywords were carried out using a single database (SCOPUS) to identify the most prolific contributors to research articles in the areas of Lean, Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma, and thereafter patterns were analysed in five-year periods between 2000 and 2015. Findings This research demonstrates clear changing and evolving patterns of research activity. Not only is there a clear emergence of research focussed on Lean Six Sigma rather than a single methodology, there are also indications that researchers publish work using different methodologies in response to different challenges. Research limitations/implications The research is restricted to a single database and includes only the 21 most prolific contributors in each five-year period. The analysis is based on the focus of each peer-reviewed paper contributed to. Practical implications This research is intended to support and inform organisations which are developing or running business process improvement approaches by demonstrating the flexibility of Lean and Sigma, and evidencing that researchers work across different approaches and combine them when appropriate. Originality/value This paper provides a unique perspective on the debate for the integration of Lean and Six Sigma by looking at the patterns of work of researchers themselves to identify whether the focus of research has in fact moved on from exclusively lean or Six Sigma to more integrated approaches as has been argued in individual pieces of research.

Critical success factors of Lean Six Sigma deployment: a current review

2015 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 339-348 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fairul Anwar Abu Bakar ◽  
Khairanum Subari ◽  
Mohd Amran Mohd Daril
Keyword(s):  
Six Sigma ◽  
Critical Success Factors ◽  
Success Factors ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Success Story ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Critical Success ◽  
Improvement Methodologies ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
A Current

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review and gather the latest critical success factors (CSF) of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) deployment and implementation into a comprehensive list of factors. Design/methodology/approach – The approach taken by authors in this study was to analyze the latest literature review starting 2010 onwards and focus on CSFs of LSS (not dedicated as Lean or Six Sigma) by excluding other improvement methodologies or initiatives, e.g. Lean, Six Sigma, TQM, TRIZ etc. Findings – Five significant CSFs were identified (initially 97 CSFs listed from 13 papers) out of nine groups/headers listed in clustering analysis using Affinity Diagram tool and new headers mapping. Practical implications – Most of the organisations were aware of the success story on LSS, but did not scrutinize or consider its CSFs. By knowing the outcome of this paper, it can help open eyes regarding readiness before implementing LSS. Originality/value – At the end of this paper, the authors tried to cluster the CSFs similarities that could intentionally provide the guidelines and references to industries/companies for successful deployment and implementation of LSS in future endeavours.

A directed content analysis of viewpoints on the changing patterns of Lean Six Sigma research

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 641-654 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bryan A. Rodgers ◽  
Jiju Antony ◽  
Zhen He ◽  
Elizabeth A. Cudney ◽  
Chad Laux
Keyword(s):  
Continuous Improvement ◽  
Six Sigma ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Changing Patterns ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper, builds on previous studies that explored the research patterns over 15 years, is to consider the current status of the integration of Lean and Six Sigma. More specifically, this research addresses whether Lean and Six Sigma are stronger together and explores the reasons why Lean researchers and practitioners may be less likely to integrate Six Sigma in their work. Design/methodology/approach The research utilises a survey of 25 established and respected academics and practitioners from 16 countries. The questionnaire is analysed using a direct content approach and coded in NVivo. Findings The findings suggest that challenges may lie in the perception and understanding of statistics as well as short-term rather than long-term focus on improvement. The findings also suggest that academics and practitioners believe that Lean Six Sigma has developed over time and will continue to develop and improve as a methodology rather than being replaced with a new methodology. Research limitations/implications The survey has a sample size of 25, albeit all respondents are established and very experienced practitioners and academics. Practical implications For organisations that are introducing or refreshing their continuous improvement initiatives, this research identifies some of the challenges and provides the opportunity to address them to maximise the opportunities for success and sustainability. Originality/value The value of this paper is that it further addresses the debate over the integration of Lean and Six Sigma for many organisations which still employ Lean alone, but beyond this it explores how they will continue to develop and whether they are a permanent edition to the quality management landscape or a transition to something else.

Lean Six Sigma strategy in telecom manufacturing

2014 ◽  
Vol 114 (6) ◽  
pp. 904-921 ◽  
Author(s):  
Roy Andersson ◽  
Per Hilletofth ◽  
Peter Manfredsson ◽  
Olli-Pekka Hilmola
Keyword(s):  
Supply Chain ◽  
Six Sigma ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Strategic Emphasis ◽  
Company Culture ◽  
Difficult Times ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to elaborate, how the use of a joint-use strategy of Lean and Six Sigma can improve flexibility, robustness, and agility. Telecom manufacturing has been under tremendous change after dot.com bubble burst in the early 2000, and new competition has originated from Asia. Being successful requires now more than before, and joint-use of strategies is one option to survive. Design/methodology/approach – A single case study from a Swedish company operating in the telecom manufacturing was conducted. In particular, a Six Sigma project was followed and analyzed during 2002. However, the outcome of the Six Sigma project has been studied in longitudinal manner until 2014. Findings – The Lean Six Sigma strategy ensures flexible, robust, and efficient processes. However, to make them more agile in order to sustain in today's highly competitive environment, something more is required. This could include staff training, strengthening company culture and collaborating with key partners in the supply chain. Research limitations/implications – This study is limited to large company that usually has a lot of resources and choices where to put the strategic emphasis as well as has level of control of the supply chain operations. The situation could be very different in small and medium-sized companies and thus it may be more difficult to realize the Lean Six Sigma strategy in such environment. On the other hand, the processes in these companies are often less complex. Practical implications – This research provides guidance on how to manage the Lean Six Sigma strategy in order to ensure more flexible, robust, and efficient processes as well as how to perform a Six Sigma project in Lean environment, in a proper manner. Originality/value – This research provides guidance to companies regarding the applicability and properties of the Lean Six Sigma strategy. The paper will also serve as a basis for other companies and industries, on how to survive in difficult times.

Continuous improvement in a university – the first steps: a reflective case study

2018 ◽  
Vol 67 (2) ◽  
pp. 260-277 ◽  
Author(s):  
Seamus O’Reilly ◽  
Joe Healy ◽  
Rónán O’Dubhghaill
Keyword(s):  
Reflective Practice ◽  
Continuous Improvement ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Implementation Phase ◽  
Participative Approach ◽  
Tools And Techniques ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Using Lean Six Sigma (LSS) implementation literature as an organising framework, the purpose of this paper is to explore the initial steps in a continuous improvement (CI) journey taken by an Irish university in order to identify the motivations, highlight key challenges and considers the capabilities required to initiate and sustain a CI programme. Design/methodology/approach This study focusses on one case organisation. A participative approach is adopted to learn from the initial steps taken in the establishment of a CI programme. Given this approach, the researchers had access to all documents and related archives associated with this initiative. Hence an iterative learning approach is adopted with the analysis of data from the first 12-month plan informing the next planning and implementation phase. Findings This paper provides a reflective account of why and how a university went about commencing a CI programme. The motivation to establish the CI programme not only reflects the current fiscal environment but also one characterised by a need to respond to a number of increasingly demanding stakeholders. The insights gained highlight the importance of alignment with strategy, role of specialists and use of a structured method informed by a LSS approach. Of particular note is the role of expertise, both internal and external, and within this context the interplay between a formal top-down approach and the coming together enthusiast staff, some of whom had CI experience from previous employment. A number of practical implications were identified as a result of the study including the key role of the project sponsor; the criticality of an understanding of the fundamental LSS concepts and tools and techniques by management; and the key role played by improvement specialists. Originality/value While in recent times a strong case for the application of LSS in HEIs has been made, there is a paucity of case studies based on the reflective practice in the field. This paper is novel in that it aims to address this and contribute to an emerging body of CI literature in the HEI area.

A systematic literature review of lean six sigma adoption in European organizations

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nikolaos A. Panayiotou ◽  
Konstantinos E. Stergiou
Keyword(s):  
Six Sigma ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Complete Analysis ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Analysis Framework ◽  
Inclusion Criteria ◽  
European Organization ◽  
Content Type ◽  
European Institutions ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review of the literature about lean six sigma (LSS) implementation in European organizations written by academics or practitioners from European institutions to extract useful conclusions about LSS adoption in European companies and to suggest direction for future research concerning the broader LSS application in them. Design/methodology/approach This study has been conducted by reviewing 58 papers, found in top journals, coming from European institutions that present studies of European companies and fulfill the selected inclusion criteria. Findings The analysis of the literature revealed the level of penetration of the LSS methodology in organizations of each European country. The study of the papers revealed the sectors and the size of companies that are more active in LSS application, the method used in each project, the tools which are deployed and the interconnection between LSS and other topics through the project implementation. Research limitations/implications The limited access provided by the authors’ institution only to three major publishers (Emerald, Elsevier, Taylor and Francis) and the focus of the search only in European organizations were the main limitations of this review. Practical implications This paper provides both academics and practitioners with valuable insights about LSS implementation in European organizations, presenting a complete analysis framework of the literature and highlighting gaps for further research. Originality/value An extended and detailed analysis of LSS adoption in Europe has not been conducted before. This review presents a clear view about how LSS projects in European organization have been applied so far and suggests ways of how the literature could be enriched to facilitate the LSS implementation.

Analysis of research trends and constructs in context to lean six sigma frameworks

2017 ◽  
Vol 28 (6) ◽  
pp. 794-821 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gunjan Yadav ◽  
Dinesh Seth ◽  
Tushar N. Desai
Keyword(s):  
Six Sigma ◽  
Building Blocks ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Research Trends ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Domain Experts ◽  
Usage Stage ◽  
New Applications ◽  
Unique Study ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The literature of lean six sigma (LSS) is flooded with frameworks. But to date, there has been no attempt to expose the inconsistencies in the existing frameworks and associated research trends. The purpose of this paper is to critically review 26 LSS frameworks and highlight inconsistencies. The study also helps in analysing research trends and constructs of LSS frameworks, and facilitates new applications. Design/methodology/approach It uses Scopus database and finalises 26 frameworks in the LSS domain considering a timeframe from 2000 to 2017, using a structured literature review approach and involving domain experts. It uses a battery of systematic requirements-based questions to understand trends and covers building blocks/constructs also. Findings It reveals inconsistencies at three different stages, namely, the framework stage, usage stage capturing existing research trends and construct stage. It also offers details at building block/construct level. Thus, it offers guidance in reducing inconsistencies and possible modifications in the existing frameworks. It not only exposes existing constructs and sub-constructs but also guides about the new upcoming changes in the business influencing the LSS domain. It also educates about the strengths and weaknesses of each framework. Research limitations/implications This study tries to reduce inconsistencies, but does not offer new generalised or sector-specific framework. Practical implications This study will assist for modification/corrections in the existing frameworks by reducing inconsistencies and will encourage new frameworks to facilitate applications. Originality/value This is a unique study which offers frameworks-based review, portrays research trends and guides about constructs of a framework by exposing inconsistencies at each stage. It helps in reducing inconsistencies and offers guidance regarding modifications in the LSS framework considering upcoming challenges.

Experiencing Lean Six Sigma in the French residential construction

2016 ◽  
Vol 7 (4) ◽  
pp. 346-368 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zakaria Dakhli ◽  
Zoubeir Lafhaj ◽  
Antoine Bos
Keyword(s):  
Real Estate ◽  
Information Flow ◽  
Six Sigma ◽  
Manufacturing Industry ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Real Estate Development ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Real Value ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Practical Recommendations

Purpose Compared to the manufacturing industry, Lean Six Sigma (LSS) lacks a clear methodology for its application in the tertiary service. One reason is the difficulties to assess information flow compared to physical flow. Indeed, the use of information flow as a process entry in the LSS method is not well investigated, mainly due to the difficulties in collecting adequate and sufficient data. The purpose of this research study is to investigate the application of LSS in the tertiary service, in particular, real estate development. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on an action research methodology where LSS methodology is applied to solve client-dissatisfaction issue. One of its main causes is found to be the late delivery time. The work describes how the method was applied. Findings LSS is an adequate approach for making well-thought-out improvement in real estate development. Practical implications The work provides an implementation of LSS in real estate development. It also gives new insights into the LSS application in the tertiary service. The work also suggests practical recommendations and solutions to address the main challenges faced by real estate development. Originality/value Construction is governed by many processes that are difficult to identify and, even more, to assess. LSS helps identifying those which create real value for the client.

Where to direct research in lean six sigma?

2018 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 324-350 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fabio Francisco da Silva ◽  
Lukas Daniel Filser ◽  
Fernando Juliani ◽  
Otávio José de Oliveira
Keyword(s):  
Six Sigma ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Research Trends ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Main Research ◽  
Efficiency And Effectiveness ◽  
Subject Areas ◽  
Number Of Citations ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is a continuous improvement methodology used to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of processes. Although there are several articles published, only two have analyzed the literature from a bibliometrics perspective. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the LSS literature by bibliometrics, identifying its state of the art, scientific gaps and research trends. Design/methodology/approach Articles published up to 2016 in the database Scopus were investigated to identify the most significant articles, authors, journals, institutions and countries based on citation counting as well as the most frequent keywords and subject areas on LSS. Articles published in 2014, 2015 and 2016 were analyzed to point out scientific gaps and to identify eight main research trends on LSS. Findings The research trends are: “LSS implementation”, “Healthcare”, “LSS tools”, “Human factors”, “Expansion of results”, “SME”, “LSS combined with other methodologies” and “Education”. The research outcomes also point out the most significant articles, authors, journals, institutions and countries in LSS literature. Practical implications This research contributes to develop the state of the art of LSS and helps professionals as well as researchers to identify which issues new studies should address. Originality/value The performance of the literature is measured based on the number of citations and not on the number of published papers, and the bibliometric analysis covers the highest number of articles so far (319 articles). Besides, the identification of the main research trends on LSS is exclusively based on the most recent studies.

Lean Six Sigma for small- and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises: a systematic review

2019 ◽  
Vol 36 (3) ◽  
pp. 378-397 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul Alexander ◽  
Jiju Antony ◽  
Bryan Rodgers
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Six Sigma ◽  
Lean Six Sigma ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Research Gaps ◽  
Systematic Review Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Manufacturing Enterprises ◽  
Three Stages ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the most common themes within Lean Six Sigma (LSS) relating to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within manufacturing organisations and to identify the research gaps in the existing literature. Design/methodology/approach Tranfield et al.’s (2003) systematic review methodology was utilised encompassing three stages: planning, conducting and reporting/dissemination. Findings The literature revealed that there are many areas in which LSS has been utilised with varying successes. In total, 52 journals have been reviewed and it has been concluded that although LSS is a powerful methodology, there are many gaps that exist in the literature and further research is needed to address these in the field of LSS. Research limitations/implications The papers included in the systematic review were peer-reviewed papers available in English. Due to these limitations, relevant papers may have been excluded. Moreover, the authors have excluded all conference and white papers for their inclusion in this study. Practical implications It is vital that LSS practitioners are fully aware of the benefits, limitations and impeding factors when implementing a LSS initiative. Therefore, this paper could provide valuable insights to ensuring maximum value, is obtained from LSS implementation in SMEs. Originality/value This systematic review identifies research gaps in the current literature and highlighting areas of future research which will be beneficial to many SMEs in their pursuit of value optimisation.

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