HobsonS Project2.docx - 1 Lean Six Sigma in Case Studies...

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Lean Six Sigma in Case Studies Assignment
Sarah K. Hobson
School of Business, Liberty University
Dr. Chris Huseman
November 7, 2021
Author Note
By submitting this assignment, I attest this submission represents my own work, and not
that of another student, scholar, or internet source. I understand I am responsible for knowing
and correctly utilizing referencing and bibliographical guidelines. I have not submitted this work
for any other class.

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Abstract
Lean Six Sigma combines two well-known process improvement models that provide
organizations with the necessary framework in achieving operational superiority: Lean and
Six Sigma. Both of the popular approaches to continuous improvement assist in
organizational well-being through providing the company with a definitive pathway in
successfully accomplishing their vision, missions, and goals as quickly and competently as
possible. The primary purpose of utilizing lean methodology involves the waste reduction of
processes. On the other hand, Six Sigma focuses more on reducing process variations. Even
so, each respective approach compliments the other approach and assists key organizational
decision-makers in discerning and comprehending the full spectrum of necessary process
improvement endeavors. A combined approach involving Lean Six Sigma ideologies equip
the organization in reconstructing process efficiency, maximizing financial and non-financial
resources, bolstering consumer satisfaction, increasing profits, and reducing overall cost. One
key driving force behind Six Sigma projects includes the DMAIC methodology, which
represents defining, measuring, analyzing, improving, and controlling the information-driven
improvement cycle. The DMAIC improvement cycle maximizes and balances organizational
processes and plans while serving as an instrumental mechanism in supporting Six Sigma
continuous improvement aspirations. Even so, DMAIC techniques are not solely tied to Six
Sigma projects: however, the progressive steps are oftentimes utilized as the foundation for a
plethora of other improvement operations.
Keywords: Lean Six Sigma, lean thinking, DMAIC, improvement cycle, continuous
improvement

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Introduction
Lean Six Sigma combines two important process improvement approaches: Lean and Six
Sigma. Through successfully implementing the tools and techniques of both well-known
methods, organizations experience unparalleled levels of operational greatness. Each of the time-
tested improvement avenues provide institutions with a clear direction in accomplishing
organizational goals in an expeditiously efficient manner. Moreover, Lean Six Sigma is a plan
that equips key personnel with the necessary tools in effectively analyzing and enhancing
processes and procedures while remaining team-focused. The key focus of Six Sigma is in
accomplishing performance improvement pursuits through eliminating, mitigating, and
terminating waste and defects (Singh et al., 2018; 2019). Throughout the course of the following