Lean and Six Sigma: Are They Saying the Same Thing?
Exactly what is Six Sigma? Well, the short answer is, Six Sigma is a set of methodologies or a management system that uses specific tools to improve the manufacturing processes. These tools that Six Sigma uses will allow you to compile data, thus finding where the process is falling short and causing the defect.
The theory behind Six Sigma is that by being able to find the defects and eliminate them, it will lead to more efficient and effective manufacturing processes, which will lower production costs, produce a product or service that is higher in quality. and in less time.
Many people have questions on the differences between Six Sigma and L xzn. Let’s clarify the difference between the two concepts. First of all, both Six Sigma and Lean have the same end objective — to eliminate waste (defects). Those on the Six Sigma side state that waste is a result of variation in the processes. Those on the Lean side state that waste comes from unnecessary steps that do not add value during the production processes. Thus, Lean Six Sigma was born.
Data Is Vital
Six Sigma relies on data; without data, it’s just speculation, and speculation is not in the Six Sigma vocabulary. In Six Sigma the tool used is DMAIC, which stands Define–Measure–Analyze–Improve–Control. In Lean, the 7 types of waste are labeled as Overproduction, Inventory, Over-Processing, Motion, Waiting, Transport and Defects.
As you can see, both Lean and Six Sigma the make the perfect combination to improve business processes and eliminate waste and defects. This waste can come from unnecessary steps that don’t add value during the production process, or as a result of variation in the day-to-day processes.
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