What is Lean Six Sigma?

What is Lean Six Sigma?

Lean six sigma has become an important asset for businesses of all kinds across the globe.

You may hear its name used frequently in business meetings, articles about business growth and strategic organisational plans.

You might also hear phrases like “thinking lean”, “continuous improvement”, or introducing a “process improvement culture”.

All of these things, along with other related terms can be casually dropped into conversation, often causing confusion.

This article is designed to offer a quick introduction to lean, six sigma and process improvement. It will also outline how all of these things are linked together.

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The guide includes additional insights, such as understanding lean six sigma belts and roles, how to choose the right course, and guidelines on getting started.

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In this article:

What is Process Improvement?

Process improvement refers to an organised, systematic approach to analysing and improving how things are done in an organisation.

Process improvement aims to assess the current state of how things are done, analyse each step and element within the process, and implement measures to improve the process.

Structured methodologies are used to apply process improvement correctly. Lean and six sigma are the best known of these methodologies.

What is Lean Six Sigma?

It is the combination of two standalone process improvement methods: Lean and Six Sigma.

Although these methods can be used separately, they are often combined due to how incredibly effective they are when used together.

Let’s begin by outlining each on its own and then review how they work when combined.

What is Lean?

Lean targets waste. It is focused on achieving the most efficient process without compromising on quality.

The methodology originated in the manufacturing industry as an approach for streamlining production by eliminating any unnecessary or wasteful elements of the production process.

You may also hear it referred to as “lean management” or “lean culture”.

Key Tools & Phrases: Lean

What is Six Sigma?

Many refer to six sigma as “problem solving”. When you are looking for a very simple definition, this is quite a good fit.

Six sigma is used to identify flaws or defects in a process, and to correct them. It tackles a problem (or potential problem) at the root, so that it can be prevented or resolved.

Six sigma is data-driven. It gathers detailed information and uses it to reduce variations or defects, with an end goal of a higher, more consistent quality level.

Key Tools & Phrases: Six Sigma

There are many different tools and approaches utilised within six sigma. Here are some of the best-known:

Combining Lean and Six Sigma

Using each method separately will yield positive results for any business. However, the two combined can achieve game-changing savings and improvements.

The approaches and techniques within each work easily in harmony.

Lean will reduce the waste in the entire process. Using Six Sigma will minimise any defects or variations in your product or service.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits that can be achieved through the combined use of these process improvement titans.

Benefits of using Lean Six Sigma:

Once you begin to transform how you do things with lean six sigma, you will find benefits like the ones listed below.

You are also likely to find unexpected benefits unique to your organisation.

Here are some common benefits anyone using these methods consistently and correctly can expect:

Why Lean Six Sigma Training is Crucial

While the concept behind lean six sigma is very simple and seems like common sense, implementing it takes skill and a thorough knowledge of the different systems and techniques involved in both methodologies.

Attending lean six sigma training will give you a theoretical and practical understanding, along with a level of confidence in your capability to implement.

Getting Started with Lean Six Sigma

When choosing a starting point for your training, you have two great options.

Yellow Belt Training

We recommend our yellow belt training for those who want to get a solid introduction to process improvement and come away with tools and knowledge they can begin implementing immediately.

This is a 2-day course that will give you a confident understanding of the DMAIC Cycle and an introduction to six sigma concepts.

Green Belt Training

Our green belt is also suited for those who are new this area. It is more in-depth than the yellow belt course, with detailed focus on both methodologies.

Over 5 days (with a break in between Days 1 – 3 and Days 4 – 5), you will learn about a wide range of lean and six sigma tools for achieving process improvement excellence.

In-Company Training for Teams

If you would like to begin introducing a process improvement culture to your team or business, a tailored in-company programme is the natural solution.

You can learn more about how this works and request a custom quote by visiting our in-company page.

Advice & Resources

Here are some resources for your next steps in learning and research:

1. Get Advice

   Talk to us about choosing a lean six sigma course that matches your needs.

   Our consultants have a lot of experience in this area and can offer guidance on what will offer the most benefit for your current situation and goals.

   You can call us directly at Freephone 1800 910 810 or ask a question online.

   Ask a Question

2. Download a Detailed Guide

   Get your copy of our PDF Guide to Lean Six Sigma instantly.

   This guide includes plenty of helpful information about lean six sigma and getting certified.

   Download Free Guide

3. Follow-Up Articles

   Process Improvement Benefits
   Lean Six Sigma Belts & Roles
   The difference between Lean and Six Sigma