The newest hype in quality land is Lean Six Sigma. The name suggests a natural symbiosis of these two methods, but if you observe the essential characteristics of both the differences seem obvious.

The table above is off course very strict and in reality the differences are not that big, but it is by no means obvious to integrate these two systems. As a result different forms of integration have been developed:

• First apply Lean methodology and only switch to Six Sigma when needed
• Use the DMAIC cycle and add Lean tools to the toolbox
• Use Lean or Six Sigma in function of the type of problem

QS Consult sees the integration of Lean and Six Sigma more as a strategic part of an overall policy of continuous improvement. The philosophy of improvement is based on Lean and Six Sigma is used as a powerful method for supporting breakthrough improvements.

The figure below shows how this works.

One of the types of “muda” in Lean is inventory. By decreasing the inventory expensive safety is avoided. But off course now problems become visible. These can be dealt with by applying Six Sigma.

Besides, apart from “muda” Lean also knows the much less known term “mura”. "mura" means high variations in the  process that subsequently lead to “muda”. Reducing variation is the prime goal of Six Sigma.

Services offered:

• Public training course Lean Six Sigma in cooperation with PvO and Mutandiss.
• Training Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Services.
• Coaching on the introduction of Lean Six Sigma.

References:

USG People, PvO, Allanta, …

Additional information:

• Content of the training Lean six Sigma Green Belt for services
• Methods for integrating Lean and Six Sigma