Before we begin our discussion of Six Sigma, I want to make sure that you understand the difference between LEAN 6 Sigma and 6 Sigma. 6 Sigma is a mathematical theorem that for every 3.4 million items produced only one defect is experienced. This is truly a manufacturing in excellence methodology. Reduce the number of defects by using statistical controls to ensure that defects are minimized.
LEAN is a methodology that reduces waste or activities that do not bring value to a product. These two methodologies merged because alone they could not achieve all the necessary improvements alone.
This handbook is less about lean and more about 6 sigma. But we will add in the various lean methodologies throughout the program.
REMEMBER THIS!
One of the greatest failures of new Lean 6 Sigma practitioners is to forget to accomplish the following:
- Determine what is quality – by means of measurable data
- Preserve or increase the quality
- Only reduce the cost if it does not reduce the quality
- Know what data to record and why it is important
While it important to know what to do in lean projects, it is always important to not skip steps 1-4, and to ask probing questions to resolve 1-4, even if everyone thinks that they know the answers, we test everything that could have an impact on our project. As we progress through all the tools of LEAN, remember that each is just a tool, and that you as the practitioner, are the true artist.
The difference between an Artist and a Professional.
Much debate has been to professionalize each industry, because professionals achieve constant results. But artist achieve something greater, results that inspire and create fundamental change. It is said that a professional is a skill level artist, and lacks the passion and total commitment that is required to achieve artistry, because an artist must see what others cannot, and achieve what others believe impossible.
As you manage your studies, learn the profession, but seek the art in Lean 6 Sigma.
