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Lean

Lean has been described many different ways. Typically we use Lean when we are looking to quickly provide value.  It is especially helpful in service organizations. In Lean we stream line by identifying a) what is critical to the customer b) what is the value stream of the core processes and c) how do we align the voice of the customer and the voice of the employees toward common goals. Six Sigma Lean is a combination of the Six Sigma Improve and Lean tools such as the 5S which is the abbreviated reference to five Japanese words that govern workplace organization and housekeeping. The five words are: Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke.

Typically this results in 8 types of waste / non-value added work
Wasted human talent – Damage to people

  • Defects – "Stuff" that’s not right & needs fixing
  • Inventory - "Stuff" waiting to be worked
  • Overproduction – "Stuff" too much/too early
  • Waiting Time – People waiting for "Stuff" to arrive
  • Motion – Unnecessary human movement
  • Transportation – Moving people & "Stuff"
  • Processing Waste – "Stuff" we have to do that doesn’t add value to the product or service we are supposed to be producing.

The five steps in lean practice include:

  1. Identifying Value
  2. Defining Value Stream
  3. Determining Flow
  4. Defining Pull, and
  5. Improving Process.

One of the complaints of Lean is that it cannot bring a process under statistical control so this is where Six Sigma Lean -especially the control phase- can assist. Conversely, one of the complaints of either Six Sigma path is that it takes too long. We customize both Six Sigma and Lean tools to get the greatest value for our customers.

Regardless of the Six Sigma and/or Lean Path you chose, Metaspire has:

  • Certified Six Sigma professionals
  • Certified Lean professionals and
  • Certified Six Sigma Lean professionals

Request your assessment today to see how Lean can improve your company.