The Journey of Adopting Lean Six Sigma – from the Implementation Team’s Perspective: A Case Study

Abstract

This paper proposes a case study undertaken within a Romanian company which adopted Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Methodology. The research objectives pursued are the identification of the way in which this process has proceeded, from the implementation team’s perspective. The primary data collected while interviewing them target both the positive and the negative aspects, as well as the benefits and the elements that still need improvement as part of the process of LSS implementation. The conclusions of our research indicate some of the positive aspects of Company A’s “journey” towards LSS namely: a totally committed management, well trained employees, openness to change from the implementation team and from part of the employees, and also the external consultant’s involvement when this was needed. The less positive aspects of the researched process were given by the need to get some of the instruments adjusted (these being specific to the field of production, as the researched team provides products, solutions and electro-technical and mechanical services), the lack of experience regarding LSS from the large majority of the members of the implementation team, and also the long duration of the Analysis stage as part of the D.M.A.I.C. Methodology (Defining, Measurement, Analysis, Implementation, Control) given the large quantity of data. One essential aspect identified is that, in the case of Company A, LSS implementation led to the desired results that is to the change of the organizational culture, to the reducing of operational costs and to performance improvement, and also to improving customer service.