Six Sigma Process Definition and Manufacturing Firms in South East Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the Six Sigma process definition evaluation of SME manufacturing firms in South-East Nigeria. The aims of the study include to: define the extent to which the process definition influences customers’ patronage; identify the extent to which the process measurement influences product positioning; and establish the extent to which the improvement of production processes influences customers’ retention. Three research questions and hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a survey research design with a multi-stage sampling procedure to select 528 employees from a total of 12 SME manufacturing firms in the South-Eastern parts of Nigeria. The study used a validated instrument to obtain data. The study recorded a 97% returning rate and the data collected was analysed using a descriptive tool such as percentage and mean, while inferential statistics such as Pearson product moment correlation and linear regression were used to test the hypotheses. The study found that the process definition practice among SME manufacturing firms in the South-Eastern parts of Nigeria profoundly influences customers’ patronage (B = 0.530, t = 17.398, P-value = 0.000). Also, the study built up a significant positive connection between process measurement and product positioning (Pearson R = 0.628, N = 512, & p-value < 0.05). Likewise, production improvement strategy by SME manufacturing firms in the South-Eastern parts of Nigeria has a high influence on customers’ retention (Pearson R = 0.602, approx. N = 512, & p-value < 0.05). The study concluded that, despite the average adaptation of Six Sigma process definition evaluation of SME manufacturing firms in South-East Nigeria, its effect is better-off in many aspects. The study recommended, among other things, intensive effort from management to ensure persistent use of Six Sigma. The study also suggested more commitment towards the adoption of Six Sigma process production approach for SME manufacturing firms in South-East Nigeria to gain all the expected benefits in terms of performance, competitive power, more patronage, customers’ retention as well as employee development.