Lean Six Sigma implementation case studies. (27th December 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pickrell, Gary; Lyons, Harry J.; Shaver, Judy
• Is Part Of: International journal of six sigma and competitive advantage. Volume 1:Number 4(2005)
• Page Start: 369
• Page End: 379
• Publication Date: 2005-12-27
• Subjects: lean manufacturing -- lean six sigma -- statistical thinking -- business improvement -- case studies -- military engineering -- cost reduction -- cycle time reduction -- customer returns -- inventory reduction -- production capacity -- automated document control -- manufacturing delays; Six sigma (Quality control standard) -- Periodicals; Quality control -- Periodicals; 658.4013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1479-2494

Abstract

In this paper, we review the rational and potential framework for combining principles of Six Sigma with those of Lean Manufacturing and present two case studies for Lean Six Sigma Projects completed at a worldwide manufacturer of precision slip ring and integrated motion systems for high performance requirements in military and commercial aircraft, satellites and space vehicles, missiles, and automated industrial machinery. Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma business improvement programmes are often implemented separately. A growing number of companies have realised these programmes are a dynamic, synergistic force rather than two separate and competing initiatives. A proprietary military application case study is presented whereby substantial documented improvements in reductions of cost, cycle time, customer returns and inventory, and an increase in production capacity will be presented. In the second study, an automated document control system was implemented, reducing customer rejections and manufacturing delays due to document revision errors during production.