Are you curious about the difference between Lean vs six sigma?
First, let’s define each. Lean is a business approach that eliminates waste and frees production capacity. Six Sigma is a quality management method that reduces defects through data-driven problem-solving.
Considering that both value the achievement of smooth operations, they are often implemented in tandem. Please keep reading below to learn more about the primary differences between these two quality methodologies.
What is Lean and What Does it Do?
The lean strategy focuses on reducing waste and optimizing value in producing goods and services. It is based on the concept of continuous improvement, or Kaizen.
Japanese economists and engineers created it during the post-World War II recession. This is when noticed that traditional production methods could have used more time and resources.
Lean encourages cutting out anything that does not add value to the customer and is focused on rapid improvement and responding quickly to customer needs. The goal is to shorten development time and reduce costs.
What is Six Sigma and What does it do?
Six Sigma is a data-driven method and tool designed to improve business processes by minimizing waste and increasing process efficiency. Six Sigma utilizes a series of steps.
It is called the “DMAIC” (for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) process. This is to measure and improve the performance of any process and reduce defects.
Examining the Pros and Cons of Lean Six Sigma
Lean is focused on reaching operational excellence through the elimination of waste. Six Sigma focuses on improving the quality of a process and minimizing defects.
Some of the pros of Lean include:
- Increased customer value
- Faster development times
- Reduced costs
- Higher customer satisfaction
The cons of Lean are that the approach is heavily reliant on processes and can be considered rigid. Six Sigma has various tools and techniques to improve quality and reduce variation, including problem-solving techniques and statistical analysis.
The pros of Six Sigma include the following:
- Reduced operational costs
- Improved process characteristics
- Improved customer satisfaction
On the other hand, some cons include a combined lack of employee motivation and expertise, difficulties translating Six Sigma data into actionable results, and implementation costs.
How to Identify Which Method is Right For Your Business
Conduct a thorough assessment of your current business plan and the methodologies available. Take into account the size and scope of your business. Consider the amount and type of resources you have access to.
Check the customer base and the tasks and goals at hand. Here are some elements to consider before settling on a specific method:
- Your budget
- Your timeline
- Your expectations for the project
The type of technology you will use, how it will be implemented, and the customer service that will be provided. If you are decided to take LSS certification, don’t hesitate to check https://www.theleansixsigmacompany.co.uk/ today and bring out the best in your business!
Learn to Differentiate Lean vs Six Sigma Today
The difference between Lean and Six Sigma is clear. Lean focuses on process speed, while Six Sigma focuses on process quality. Businesses that benefit from short turn-around times should investigate Lean, while those that wish to reduce defects and improve quality should investigate Six Sigma.
By following this guide to Lean vs six sigma, you make the right decision for your business.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blogs!
Leave feedback about this