How does Six Sigma influence creativity and corporate performance through exploration and exploitation?

Abstract

While Six Sigma has been implemented increasingly in a wide range of industries, little empirical research has been conducted on its effects on individual creativity and project performance. Many managers still trust that Six Sigma provides structured methods, such as DMAIC (define, measure, analyse, improve, and control) and DFSS (design for Six Sigma), by which individuals can organise their creative ideas to improve project performance. Once project performance improves significantly, it is certain that corporate performance improves significantly as well. However, no empirical studies support this premise. Therefore, this study assessed a new research model in which the structured methods provided by the Six Sigma philosophy can help individuals organise their exploration and exploitation to support their creativity and improve project performance that leads ultimately to corporate performance. To confirm the research model proposed, survey questionnaire data were collected from 201 respondents (the majority of whom were qualified Champions, Master Black Belts, Black Belts, and Green Belts). Empirical results revealed that Six Sigma’s structured methods are very robust in stimulating both individuals’ exploration and exploitation to improve individual creativity and project performance.