Lean / Six Sigma

In the simplest terms, Lean/ Six Sigma is a comprehensive approach that heavily relies on the use of statistical tools to measure and improve process quality based on customer requirements.

Lean typically focuses on the identification and removal of waste in processes.

Six Sigma is most often used to establish Process Management, or to drive Process Improvement (Root Cause Problem Solving), and Process Design.

Often the Lean and Six Sigma approaches compliment one another well as a method for improving organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

This approach has been used by leading corporations such as Motorola, GE, American Express, and many others. The fundamental principle of Six Sigma is to "satisfy customer requirements profitably".

 

Benefits of using a Six Sigma approach to process measurement & improvement include:

1. Works in both manufacturing and service environments

2. Allows for comparison of process efficiency across unlike processes

3. Establishes a common language and set of tools for organizational measurement and process improvement

4. Supports the quantification of processes that seem difficult to measure

5. Allows for measurable goal setting

6. Basic techniques are trainable at all levels of the organization

 

Calculating Sigma Levels

Sigma levels can be calculated either by using Yield - defined as "good" units produced by a process the first time (i.e., no rework) or Defects Per Million Opportunities. (Six Sigma translates to 3.4 "defects" per million.)

The abbreviated table below will let you estimate the short-term sigma level for your process. It is best to "round down" as not to artificially inflate sigma levels.  Long term sigma levels are calculated by subtracting 1.5 from short-term sigma

 

 

 

Consulting Services

To Contact Burns Associates:

 

Phone: 561-317-6190

E-mail: info@burnsassociates.net

Burns Associates

Business Process Improvement Specialists