The Lean Six Sigma Benchmark Report

The Lean Six Sigma Benchmark Report








September 2006
The Lean Six Sigma Benchmark Report

Executive Summary
ix Sigma is an integrated, disciplined approach for reducing defects and producing
measurable financial results. With its roots in statistical engineering, the Six Sigma S concept embodies a data driven methodology focused on driving down process
variation so that no more than 3.4 defects are produced per million opportunities. It
has long been associated with Lean Manufacturing. While Lean serves to eliminate
waste, Six Sigma reduces process variability in striving for perfection.
Pressures to adopt Six Sigma are primarily driven by the need to improve operational
performance in order to reduce costs and push financial results to the bottom line. While
over 50% of respondents in Aberdeen’s Lean Six Sigma survey, as well as in past studies,
indicated Six Sigma programs were implemented, we found less than 16% of “Six
Sigma” companies and less than 8% of all respondents are holding true to the rigorous
program with the stringent quality goal, structured problem-solving approach, dedicated
training and prioritized projects that are the hallmark of the original Six Sigma philoso-
phies.
Key Business Value Findings
Adapting to the rigors of Six Sigma requires
significant culture change for most companies
and many find it a challenge. Companies are
finding innovative ways to address this issue ”The key to success is ...