for creativity and innovation.
PROBLEM:
Six Sigma reduces creativity and innovation in research and development.
Six Sigma is too complicated and very costly.
Constraint in balancing improvements in manufacturing and administrative process
while encouraging innovation in the research and development of new products.
CASE FACTS:
3M’s financial performance was “flat” and was not expected to improve unless some
major changes were made.
Some companies say that Six Sigma is too complicated and involves too much statistics
for their people. They can’t afford the training costs and the appointment of full-time
black belts for process improvement.
ANALYSIS/HYPOTHESIS:
Process cost involves more people while implementing the Six Sigma program. To
implement the project properly, there should be specialized team with high skills or
should improve existing employee’s ability.
ALTERNATIVE CAUSES OF ACTION:
One relevant alternative is to eliminate Six Sigma influence entirely. This would allow for
increased innovation in the research and development.
CONCLUSION:
Six Sigma affects the innovating culture at 3M in that it tends to block innovation,
creativity, and the development of new products. There needs to be a balance between
six sigma and creativity and innovation. Therefore, I think they are not yet ready to
implement Six Sigma.
