LeanSigma (SM): Advanced Quality

World Conference on Quality and Improvement vol. 55 - May 2001

Abstract: When several notable manufacturing firms began the lean journey, they looked to Lean Production Systems and kaizen to expedite the undertaking. As they reduced unneeded inventory, they discovered abnormalities calling for even more advanced methods of uncovering the root causes. Using statistical tools, LeanSigma Transformation takes organizations from an intuitive level to the most advanced - from an initial kaizen to deploying LeanSigma black belts to uncover the causal effects of raw materials and processing on finished quality. Each level of transformation takes place in a cross-functional environment, with collaboration and data collection and analysis driving cultural change.

Keywords: Data collection - Kaizen - Lean manufacturing - Data analysis - Statistical quality control (SQC) - Case study - Cultural change - Six Sigma