Critical success factors and hurdles to Six Sigma implementation: the case of a UK manufacturing SME

Abstract

To date, the benefits of Six Sigma primarily have been realised by large organisations and the question therefore remains how best to apply Six Sigma in Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). This paper reports key findings of a Six Sigma survey conducted in a UK manufacturing SME with an objective of assessing the status of Six Sigma in the company. The instrument designed captures the respondent's viewpoint on the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) and barriers faced in Six Sigma implementation and its impact on the performance measures existing within the company. Findings revealed that uncompromising and undying commitment from top level management is critical to the success of Six Sigma. Poor training and resource availability were identified as two major stumbling blocks encountered during Six Sigma implementation. The concluding remark arising from the study is that SMEs can also benefit from implementing Six Sigma similar to their larger counterpart.