A Directed Content Analysis of Viewpoints on the Changing Patterns of Lean Six Sigma Research

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper, builds on previous studies that explored the research patterns over 15 years, is to consider the current status of the integration of Lean and Six Sigma. More specifically, this research addresses whether Lean and Six Sigma are stronger together and explores the reasons why Lean researchers and practitioners may be less likely to integrate Six Sigma in their work.

Design/methodology/approach: The research utilises a survey of 25 established and respected academics and practitioners from 16 countries. The questionnaire is analysed using a direct content approach and coded in NVivo

Findings: The findings suggest that challenges may lie in the perception and understanding of statistics as well as short-term rather than long-term focus on improvement. The findings also suggest that academics and practitioners believe that Lean Six Sigma has developed over time and will continue to develop and improve as a methodology rather than being replaced with a new methodology.

Research limitations/implications: The survey has a sample size of 25, albeit all respondents are established and very experienced practitioners and academics. Practical implications: For organisations that are introducing or refreshing their continuous improvement initiatives, this research identifies some of the challenges and provides the opportunity to address them to maximise the opportunities for success and sustainability.

Originality/value: The value of this paper is that it further addresses the debate over the integration of Lean and Six Sigma for many organisations which still employ Lean alone, but beyond this it explores how they will continue to develop and whether they are a permanent edition to the quality management landscape or a transition to something else.

Department(s)

Engineering Management and Systems Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Academics; Integration; Lean Six Sigma; Practitioners; Research patterns

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1754-2731

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2019 Emerald Group Publishing Ltd., All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jul 2019

Link to Full Text

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