Lean six sigma applied to supply chains within a services organisation – a practical solution

Fraser, Nuran and Fraser, John (2009) Lean six sigma applied to supply chains within a services organisation – a practical solution. International journal of knowledge and learning, 5 (1). pp. 62-80. ISSN 1741-1017

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Abstract

This study explores the use of Lean Six Sigma methodologies and tools in supply chains within a services environment. The approach taken was to examine a Lean Six Sigma project within a large US financial services conglomerate to understand how this has been applied. The project not only demonstrated the achievable results, but the business thinking also presented some compelling findings. Although there are differences between the Lean and Six Sigma approaches as well as between a manufacturing and services environment, there were also some key learnings demonstrated. Certainly some of the key issues uncovered are that clear objectives combined with accurately set parameters and data gathering aligned with stakeholder buy-in is the key to success of a project of this nature.