Lean six sigmaLean six sigma is a hot topic today. Lean manufacturing and six sigma has many similarities in their concepts. But there are some distinguish differences between them as well. On the other hand some use six sigma in lean environments to good effect. Some think it is not possible to use these two concepts simultaneously for good effect. So definitely this is an are which is open for debate. Ideas, concepts and facts are put up without definite conclusion. Lean and six sigma both are not just tools. They are about the concepts and cultural change. Lean manufacturing requires a complete change of traditional management and thinking patterns. Concepts of lean are based on flow of value and identification and removal of waste. Six sigma is again a system where the cultural change is a must. Managers must come out from their traditional ways of thinking and must involve in the process. Focus of six sigma is quality. If these changes are controllable then the process will be under control. Both these systems are about continuous improvements. Lean and six sigma both have their statistical methodologies of analyzing the data and achieving the desired results. Both systems are dependent on people and treat people as the key resource. Both these systems provide common base for identifying, analyzing and solving problems. Both these systems think from customer’s point of view in thinking about value. While there are many similarities between these two methodologies, there are some key differences (at least according to my thinking). Lean manufacturing always looks at the entirety. All the processes are defined to achieve the final goal of adding value to the customer. Optimization is the word used in lean environment, not maximization nor minimization. Quality, delivery, price and other factors are almost equally important in the equation of adding value to the customer. But six sigma starts with quality and its prime focus is on quality. Variations are identified in relation to quality and hence more importance is on quality of the product or service. Minimizing or controlling the process is the aim of six sigma. In a sense this concept accepts that even the best system can have problems in its process. On the other hand six sigma is more statistical than the tools and techniques used by lean manufacturers. But if both these techniques are used simultaneously they might compliment each other well based on the scenario. In the book “Lean six sigma” by “Michael L. George” the author has discussed some of the major expected benefits of this. One major advantage of merging lean manufacturing with six sigma is that lean can deliver results quicker and more efficiently while six sigma can bring the process under statistical control. So the end result would be a controlled and measurable system with quick and efficient ways of process improvements. |
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