Using Lean Six Sigma implied assumptions

Abstract

Purpose

The intent of this work is to state the implied assumptions that define the setting for using a Lean Six Sigma (LSS) business strategy to conduct successful improvement projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The execution of define, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) phases utilizes philosophies, principles, concepts, success factors, and so forth for successful project completion. These traditional concepts form implied setting assumptions for conducting a successful project.

Findings

To establish the desired setting, it is necessary to state organizational performance modeling assumptions required for the use of many tools. Since Lean Six Sigma requires a unique organizational support structure, these assumptions must be added for completeness. Using the 15 collective assumptions is shown to provide benefits in four areas: training clarity, project assessment, leadership support, and theory foundation.

Research limitations/implications

Any list of assumptions is likely incomplete since project application settings are varied and some tools may have unique requirements.

Practical implications

The most useful of the four benefits for practitioners is establishing a familiar framework for communicating with leadership. Management is trained to evaluate assumptions for any new business strategy such as an LSS process improvement initiative. A thoughtful leader will expect to evaluate LSS assumptions for a proposed project. Stating these implied assumptions will meet those expectations.

Originality/value

Most of the stated assumptions exist in some implied form in the Lean Six Sigma literature. However, the familiar term “assumption” is not typically used in presenting Lean Six Sigma methodology. Using this traditional framework is shown to produce multiple benefits for learners and users.

Citation

Kane, V.E. (2020), "Using Lean Six Sigma implied assumptions", The TQM Journal, Vol. 32 No. 6, pp. 1561-1575. https://doi.org/10.1108/TQM-11-2019-0271