Search results

1 – 10 of 14
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 13 May 2024

Anand S. Patel and Kaushik M. Patel

India liberalized its economy in 1991, which resulted in intense global competition, quality-conscious and demanding customers. Additionally, significant technological…

248

Abstract

Purpose

India liberalized its economy in 1991, which resulted in intense global competition, quality-conscious and demanding customers. Additionally, significant technological advancements lead to enhancements in products and processes. These forced Indian organizations to adopt innovative business strategies in the past 30 years. Meanwhile, the Lean Six Sigma methodology has significantly grown with vast applicability during the past 30 years. Thus, the purpose of this study is to develop the learning on Lean Six Sigma methodology in the Indian context through investigation of literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-stage systematic literature review approach was adopted to investigate the literature during the present study. In total, 187 articles published in 62 journals/conference proceedings from 2005 to 2022 (18 years) were shortlisted. The first part of the article summarizes the significant milestones towards the quality journey in the Indian context, along with the evolution of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. The second part examines the shortlisted papers on Lean Six Sigma frameworks, their applicability in industrial sectors, performance metrics, outcomes realized, publication trends, authorship patterns and leading researchers from the Indian perspective.

Findings

Lean Six Sigma has emerged as a highly acclaimed and structured business improvement strategy worldwide. The Indian economy has seen remarkable growth in the past decade and is one of the fastest-growing economies in the 21st century. Lean Six Sigma implementation in India has significantly increased from 2014 onward. The study revealed that researchers have proposed several different frameworks for Lean Six Sigma implementation, the majority of which are conceptual. Furthermore, the balanced applicability of Lean Six Sigma in manufacturing and service sectors was observed with the highest implementation in the health-care sector. Additionally, the widely adopted tools, techniques along with performance metrics exploring case studies were reported along with a summary of eminent and leading researchers in the Indian context.

Research limitations/implications

This study is confined to reviewed papers as per the research criteria with a significant focus on the Indian context and might have missed some papers due to the adopted papers selection strategy.

Originality/value

The present study is one of the initial attempts to investigate the literature published on Lean Six Sigma in the Indian context, including perspective on the Indian quality movement. Therefore, the present study will provide an understanding of Lean Six Sigma methodology in the Indian context to graduating students in engineering and management and entry-level executives. The analysis and findings on Lean Six Sigma frameworks, research approach, publications details, etc., will be helpful to potential research scholars and academia. Additionally, analysis of case studies on Lean Six Sigma implementation by Indian industries will assist the managers and professionals in decision making.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 15 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 16 August 2024

Selamat Walmanto Hia, Moses Laksono Singgih and Raja Oloan Saut Gurning

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study the application of lean six sigma combined with mining transportation overall vehicle effectiveness (MTOVE) to improve mining…

177

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study the application of lean six sigma combined with mining transportation overall vehicle effectiveness (MTOVE) to improve mining transportation performance. MTOVE is a newly developed model to measure the overall effectiveness of mining transportation.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is case study combines the MTOVE and LSS methodologies. Data were collected from the hauling operation during a three-month period. Various lean six-sigma tools, such as the Pareto chart, ANOVA, two sample t-tests, one sample t-test, cause-and-effect analysis and time study, have been used.

Findings

The case study resulted in improvement of vehicle overall effectiveness; a 35% increase in MTOVE value, a 17% improvement in productivity and a 9% increment in truck utilization. Statistical tests confirmed the significance of reducing the mean and variation in the hauling process cycle time, which led to productivity improvement.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides practitioners with additional quantitative evidence of the potential benefits of LSS methods in the coal mining industry.

Practical implications

This paper practically and unquestionably has contributed to the LSS body of knowledge focused on the mining sector, which is recently still far behind the manufacturing sector. The study has demonstrated that some challenges in the mining environment can be solved through the effective implementation of LSS tools. Hence, this paper could be used as a reference for both researchers and practitioners.

Social implications

The study contributes in the field of LSS spread in mining industries using a case study. This study shows practical evidence of improving overall vehicle effectiveness using LSS. Practitioners can refer to this study to understand the benefits of LSS in mining sector. Since the mining industry should also adopt the LSS principle into the mining business process due to its ability to improve business performance (Valente et al., 2020; Tupamahu et al., 2019; Zanon et al., 2021).

Originality/value

There has been little scientific study of the LSS implementation in the mining industry. This research provides detailed evidence of LSS implementation in the mining sector. The main contribution is the implementation framework, which shows the combination of newly developed indicators (MTOVE and LSS) to enhance hauling operation effectiveness. This paper demonstrates how LSS tools and methods can be applied in the mining transportation industry.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 28 December 2023

Anthony Bagherian, Mark Gershon and Sunil Kumar

Numerous attempts at installing six sigma (SS) have faced challenges and fallen short of the desired success. Thus, it becomes vital to identify the critical factors and…

133

Abstract

Purpose

Numerous attempts at installing six sigma (SS) have faced challenges and fallen short of the desired success. Thus, it becomes vital to identify the critical factors and characteristics that play a pivotal role in achieving successful adoption. In this study the research has aimed to highlight that a considerable number of corporate SS initiatives, around 60%, fail primarily due to the improper incorporation of essential elements and flawed assumptions.

Design/methodology/approach

To validate the influence of critical success factors (CSFs) on SS accomplishment, the study employed a research design combining exploratory and mixed-methods approaches. A Likert-scale questionnaire was utilized, and a simple random sampling method was employed to gather data. Out of the 2,325 potential participants approached, 573 responses were received, primarily from Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. The analysis focused on 260 completed questionnaires and statistical methods including structural equation modeling (SEM), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were utilized for data analysis.

Findings

The study acknowledged four essential components of CSFs that are imperative for sustaining the success of SS: (1) Competence of belt System employees; (2) Project management skills; (3) Organizational economic capability and (4) Leadership commitment and engagement. These factors were identified as significant contributors to the maintenance of SS’s success.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this research imply that institutions, practitioners, and researchers can utilize the four identified factors to foster the sustainable deployment of SS initiatives. By incorporating these factors, organizations can enhance the effectiveness and longevity of their SS practices.

Originality/value

The investigation's originality lies in its contribution to assessing CSFs in SS deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 37 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 9 January 2025

Bikram Jit Singh

This paper aims to conduct an inclusive bibliometric review of the International Journal of Lean Six Sigma (IJLSS) to elucidate the scholarly landscape, growth trends, impact…

42

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct an inclusive bibliometric review of the International Journal of Lean Six Sigma (IJLSS) to elucidate the scholarly landscape, growth trends, impact, mappings, couplings, networking and thematic evolution within the field of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using advanced bibliometric techniques, including network analysis and clustering, this study examines the publication output of IJLSS since its inception in 2010. The analysis focuses on identifying key contributors, mapping collaborative networks, tracing thematic evolution and exploring emerging research trends. The study is executed as per the proposed easy-to-understand methodology, containing well-structured nine segments hitting various critical-bibliometrics of IJLSS along with their respective implications.

Findings

The review reveals substantial growth in the publication output of IJLSS, with India emerging as a prominent contributor. Keywords such as “Lean”, “Six Sigma”, “Quality Management”, “Operational Excellence”, “Supply Chain Management”, “Industry 4.0” and “Sustainability” emerge as central themes, reflecting the journal’s focus on process improvement methodologies along with corresponding case studies. Collaborative networks among authors and countries are robust, indicating the global reach of LSS scholarship. Emerging research trends highlight areas of potential future exploration within the field.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this study include the reliance on bibliometric data and the exclusion of nonindexed sources. However, the findings offer valuable insights into the scholarly landscape of IJLSS, providing researchers and practitioners with a comprehensive overview of LSS research inclinations and developments.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by providing a detailed analysis of LSS research published in IJLSS through a unique approach and future directions. The study adds to existing knowledge by mapping collaborative networks, tracing thematic couplings and identifying emerging research clusters within the ever evolving domain of LSS.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 10 January 2025

Shreeranga Bhat, E V Gijo and Vinayambika S Bhat

This article intends to comprehend the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach adopted in the aerospace industry in India for process improvement. This research has the objective of…

28

Abstract

Purpose

This article intends to comprehend the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach adopted in the aerospace industry in India for process improvement. This research has the objective of determining LSS deliverables such as Voice of Customer (VOC), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Critical-to-Quality (CTQ), project approach, deployment strategies and tools and techniques used to execute the project.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted an exploratory research methodology and a multiple case study analysis to draw robust inferences. The research is carried out in the Indian aerospace industry and analyses five case studies. The case studies were collated from the company via a case study protocol with pre-defined criteria. Also, a semi-structured interview is conducted with the stakeholders of each case study to determine the deployment strategies followed during the respective projects.

Findings

It is reconfirmed that LSS is crucial in the aerospace industry, particularly in engine and gear shops, to reduce rework and rejections. Also, it was found that cost and time savings are essential KPIs. Some LSS projects require multiple CTQs for process improvement in aero industries. The DMAIC approach is used for project execution, with the Design of Experiment (DOE) being an essential tool. Top management engagement, effective HRM practices, customer focus, cross-functional collaboration and clear roles are essential for successful LSS projects. Eventually, a road map was developed based on the analysis of multiple case studies.

Research limitations/implications

The study is focused on the aerospace industry in India, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other industries or regions. The small sample size and reliance on qualitative data through semi-structured interviews may introduce subjectivity. Additionally, the long-term effects of LSS implementation, particularly in the context of evolving technologies, were not fully explored.

Practical implications

This study provides actionable insights for aerospace companies and related organisations to enhance quality and operational performance. The developed roadmap offers a practical guide for LSS deployment, helping organisations improve efficiency and competitiveness, especially in an era of economic slowdown and high competition.

Originality/value

The study reveals similarities and differences in LSS deliverables in Indian aerospace industries, creating a roadmap and tool matrix for project execution and serving as a template for manufacturing industries.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 15 May 2024

Ebenezer Afum, Yaw Agyabeng-Mensah, Charles Baah and Essel Dacosta

This study aims to find out whether firms in the local textiles industry are benefiting from the combined implementation of lean practices (LPs) and quick-response manufacturing…

80

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to find out whether firms in the local textiles industry are benefiting from the combined implementation of lean practices (LPs) and quick-response manufacturing (QRM) during the era of COVID-19. The study further explores the mediating role played by quick response manufacturing in the relationship between LPs, internal process performance (IPP) and customer performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire is used to garner data from 123 local firms in Ghana’s textile industry. The analysis for all the hypothesized relationships is done using partial least square structural equation.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that LPs significantly strengthen the implementation of QRM. The result also suggests that LPs and QRM can be combined to influence IPP and customer performance. The results further suggest that QRM mediates the relationship between LPs, IPP and customer performance.

Originality/value

This study proposes and develops an integrated research model that explores the synergistic application of LPs and QRM in achieving improvements in IPP and customer performance from an emergent country perspective during the era of COVID-19. QRM serves as an important mechanism through which the relationship between LPs, IPP and customer performance can be explained.

Details

International Journal of Lean Six Sigma, vol. 15 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-4166

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 19 December 2024

Mustafa Nal, Erhan Dag and Yasar Demir

The first aim of this study is to determine the effect of lean leadership on the workload and job satisfaction of healthcare workers, and the second aim is to reveal the…

89

Abstract

Purpose

The first aim of this study is to determine the effect of lean leadership on the workload and job satisfaction of healthcare workers, and the second aim is to reveal the moderating role of workload and employee gender in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we created a comprehensive model to determine the effect of lean leadership on the workload and job satisfaction of healthcare employees and to reveal the moderating role of workload and employee gender in this relationship. We collected 1,207 valid questionnaires among Turkish health workers.

Findings

The results indicate that: (1) Lean leadership reduces perceived workload, (2) Lean leadership increases job satisfaction, (3) Workload moderates the effect of lean leadership on job satisfaction and (4) Employee gender moderates the effect of lean leadership on job satisfaction and workload. These findings have provided theoretical and practical suggestions for reducing the workload and increasing the job satisfaction of healthcare employees. Finally, we will make some suggestions for the future.

Research limitations/implications

As with other studies, there are some limitations in this study. The data used in this study were collected in Turkey. Turkish culture has a more collectivist culture than Western countries (Koksal 2011). In addition, the research was carried out with the participation of health employees. Due to Turkish cultural characteristics and the characteristics of health services, the generalization of research results may be limited. Therefore, it is recommended that the research be repeated across different cultures and different sectors to determine whether our results are culture-specific, sector-specific or generalized.

Practical implications

Healthcare managers can reduce the perception of employees’ workload by showing lean leadership behavior. Healthcare managers can increase their job satisfaction by valuing employees, inviting them to participate in business processes and providing them with the resources they need.

Social implications

In order to maintain and increase health workers’ job satisfaction, we recommend that health managers should ensure fair job sharing. In addition, health managers should take into account that female employees are more sensitive about the workload.

Originality/value

This research is the first study to examine the effect of lean leadership behavior on healthcare professionals’ workload perception and job satisfaction. Therefore, it offers important theoretical and practical implications.

Details

Journal of Health Organization and Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7266

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 24 January 2025

Kamar Zekhnini, Abla Chaouni Benabdellah, Anass Cherrafi, Imane Bouhaddou and Surajit Bag

As the global focus on supply chain management has shifted toward the importance of digitalization, resilience and sustainability to ensure viability, this paradigm merits special…

18

Abstract

Purpose

As the global focus on supply chain management has shifted toward the importance of digitalization, resilience and sustainability to ensure viability, this paradigm merits special consideration in the industrial supplier selection process in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world. Additionally, the increasing geopolitical challenges further complicate the industrial supplier selection process, necessitating robust decision-making frameworks. Thus, this paper aims to present a decision-making system using a fuzzy inference system (FIS) for industrial supplier evaluation and selection, considering a new criterion: viability.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy set theory, particularly a FIS, is used to address the subjectivity of decision-makers’ preferences. The suggested method’s validity is evaluated using a real automotive case study for industrial supplier selection situations.

Findings

Seventeen key criteria for viable industrial supplier selection were identified and used to evaluate and select the case study firm’s industrial supplier. The chosen supplier (B) demonstrated superior resilience, sustainability and digitalization capabilities, making it preferable to others. Specifically, supplier (B) exhibited exceptional adaptability to disruptions, a strong commitment to sustainable practices and advanced digital integration that enhances operational efficiency.

Practical implications

This study provides valuable insights for researchers and professionals by proposing a comprehensive industrial supplier selection system. Integrating diverse criteria is essential for viable performance in supply chains that enhances robustness and adaptability, supporting more strategic decision-making in supplier evaluation amid global and network-related challenges.

Originality/value

This novel paper introduces a new criterion, i.e. viability, in the industrial supplier selection process in the VUCA environment. In addition, it proposes a decision-making system for viable supplier performance evaluation. Furthermore, it validates the proposed FIS in an automotive case study.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 29 September 2023

Asmae El Jaouhari, Jabir Arif, Ashutosh Samadhiya, Anil Kumar and Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes

Over the next decade, humanity is going to face big environmental problems, and considering these serious issues, businesses are adopting environmentally responsible practices. To…

611

Abstract

Purpose

Over the next decade, humanity is going to face big environmental problems, and considering these serious issues, businesses are adopting environmentally responsible practices. To put forward specific measures to achieve a more prosperous environmental future, this study aims to develop an environment-based perspective framework by integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) technology into a sustainable automotive supply chain (SASC).

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents a conceptual environmental framework – based on 29 factors constituting four stakeholders' rectifications – that holistically assess the SASC operations as part of the ReSOLVE model utilizing IoT. Then, experts from the SASC, IoT and sustainability areas participated in two rigorous rounds of a Delphi study to validate the framework.

Findings

The results indicate that the conceptual environmental framework proposed would help companies enhance the connectivity between major IoT tools in SASC, which would help develop congruent strategies for inducing sustainable growth.

Originality/value

This study adds value to existing knowledge on SASC sustainability and digitalization in the context where the SASC is under enormous pressure, competitiveness and increased variability.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 31 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 26 December 2024

Mariam Bader, Raja Jayaraman, Jiju Antony, Ravindra S. Goonetilleke, Kevin Linderman and Roger Hoerl

Despite technological advancements within process improvement (PI) projects, two out of three PI projects failed. This paper aims to identify the critical failure factors (CFFs…

34

Abstract

Purpose

Despite technological advancements within process improvement (PI) projects, two out of three PI projects failed. This paper aims to identify the critical failure factors (CFFs) linked to PI projects and propose suitable mitigation strategies. It also examines how PI practitioners can leverage unsuccessful projects to stimulate learning from failure, turning them into opportunities for development and growth.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with 21 PI professionals was utilized to capture the CFFs and their corresponding mitigation best practices.

Findings

The study reveals 14 CFFs spanning from issues at the top-level management, down to challenges at the project level and shortcomings at the individual level. We uncover new evolving factors related to “big data analysis and technology implementations”, “project scope complexity”, “unrealistic goal setting”, “frequent shifts in management priorities”, “unclear problem definition” and “prolonged execution duration”. Moreover, results emphasize the significance of fostering a “culture of learning from failure” and “transparency in failure acknowledgment” to avert failures.

Originality/value

This study is the first to provide real-world solutions and guidelines to proactively mitigate PI failures. It offers insights for PI practitioners and broadens their view on emerging factors to implement preventive strategies, building on learning from failures and those of others.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

1 – 10 of 14
Per page
102050