A conceptual model for the successful deployment of Lean Six Sigma
International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management
ISSN: 0265-671X
Article publication date: 6 January 2012
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the successful deployment of Lean Six Sigma and a number of key explanatory variables that essentially comprise the competence of the organization, the competence of the deployment facilitator and the competence of the project leaders.
Design/methodology/approach
The preliminary fieldwork involved interviews with two senior Master Black Belts; then, combined with the results of a literature review, the authors develop a conceptual model. A number of hypotheses are developed and the procedures involved in empirically testing these hypotheses are briefly explained.
Findings
Technical and interpersonal attributes of Black Belts and Master Black Belts are identified as well as the factors for success in deploying Lean Six Sigma. These factors relate to: leadership, communication, behavior and awareness of Six Sigma; policies, culture and organizational support and strategy; education, training and competency of the Six Sigma experts; project improvement teams and project management; and performance evaluations based on quality criteria, information systems, data and measurement.
Originality/value
The paper produces a predictive model for the successful deployment of a continuous improvement program such as Lean Six Sigma.
Keywords
Citation
Hilton, R.J. and Sohal, A. (2012), "A conceptual model for the successful deployment of Lean Six Sigma", International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 29 No. 1, pp. 54-70. https://doi.org/10.1108/02656711211190873
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited