Using Lean Sigma to reduce costs and improve quality

Lean Six Sigma combines the rigour of the Six Sigma DMAIC problem solving methodology with the long-established tools of Lean to help organisations streamline their processes, reduce costs and improve customer service.

Research published in the iSixSigma Magazine (January/February 2007 issue) highlighted that, over the past 20 years, the use of Six Sigma has saved Fortune 500 companies an estimated $427 billion.

“The roots of Lean and Six Sigma date back to the 1980’s (and beyond). Lean arose as a method for optimising automotive manufacturing; Six Sigma evolved as a quality initiative to eliminate defects by reducing variation in process”. Michael L George: Lean Six Sigma For Service

Here are some potential benefits of effective Lean Six Sigma implementation:

Cost reduction. Reducing cost of materials, resources, labour, and utilities, as well as unnecessary steps, defects and errors in processes.

Revenue increase. Eradicating variance and waste, processes run more efficiently so organisations can sell, manufacture and deliver more products and services. 

Better customer satisfaction. Determining how quality issues impact customers, Lean Six Sigma identifies critical elements that the process may require to improve customer satisfaction.

Culture transformation. Lean Six Sigma implementation encourages employees to see themselves as problem solvers, who can look at defects as opportunities for improvement.

Competitive advantage – When implemented effectively, Lean Six Sigma principles can help your organization produce higher quality goods and services that will better meet your customer’s needs, all benefits that can progressively help your organisation to stand apart from the competition.

To help you start your journey towards business improvement, the Institution offers the following courses:

Introduction to structured problem solving using Lean Sigma: Decide which path to take to improve your business.

Improving productivity and value using Lean: Understand the principles of Lean and how they can be used for continuous improvement.

Lean Leader: Gain the skills you need to lead and be accountable for the development of a culture that will support improvement activity.

Lean Practitioner: Gain a practical overview of Lean tools and techniques.

Six sigma yellow belt: Gain a solid understanding of Six Sigma principles and methods so that you can apply best practice tools confidently.

Get in touch if you need help or would like to discuss any course or qualification for you or your team.

Email: training@imeche.org

Phone: + 44 (0)20 7304 6907