Bringing the two, Lean and Six Sigma together deliver spectacular and faster results. While Six Sigma is known for making quantum leaps in quality performance, Lean is famous for speed, both in terms of shortening the lead time and speed in making improvements. Today’s world leading companies have no hesitation of adopting these two methodologies as one common platform and simply called it Lean Six Sigma.
What sets Lean Six Sigma apart from its individual components is the recognition that you cannot do "just quality" or "just speed". You need the balanced process that can help an organization to focus on improving service quality, as defined by the customer within a set time limit.
Most companies using both methodologies began by applying basic lean-manufacturing techniques -- the 5Ss, standardized work and the elimination of waste. "As they reduced unneeded inventory, like lowering a water line to expose the rocks, they discovered the need for even more advanced methods of uncovering the root cause of abnormalities” Pointed out by Sharma and Moody, reputable Six Sigma pioneer. Six Sigma offers the use of analytical and statistical tools to do the job.
While the earlier adopters of two methodologies may differ in their approaches, intelligent integration of these two is necessary to avoid confusion by removing or simplified complicated tools sets. The early success comes from service industry and Lean Six Sigma for service started to gain its following.
Lean Six Sigma today, learning from Six Sigma, uses DMAIC model and stressed on establishing baseline performance levels, calculating ROI and stressed on sustaining through Control plan. On the other hand, various lean tools and Kaizen methodology eliminate non-value added steps and simplified work flow quickly.
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