How to go about it
So what do you need to do to reap the benefits of Lean and Six Sigma?
The most important starting point is senior management buy-in and leadership. Without this the tools are nothing but toothless tigers and improvement projects are destined to fail. In Toyota most senior managers spend some time working on the production process, understanding how things are done; continuous improvement is part of their culture.
The next stage is to get educated. Understand what is really involved as this is not a short term commitment and all members of staff must be aware of the business’s improvement journey.
Then start on small projects using tools such as value stream mapping, visual management, and 5S from the Lean toolkit. Also some basic Six Sigma to understand where to start improvements.
Throughout this process of adaptation and transformation it is often essential to have a facilitator and mentor; someone with real experience of what you’re doing.
Getting and keeping new sales can be tough, especially in difficult times, so a complementary way to drive profitability is by the adoption of a lean approach, focused on customer value, improved quality, elimination of waste and empowerment of small teams.
Also see:
Proven Ways To Improve Your Profits
What is customer value?
What does Lean Mean for me?
For advice or support with using Lean or Six Sigma in your business, contact us using the form to the right, or email info@mgarnerconsulting.co.uk or ring us on 07885 525221.
