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Parting Shot: Analysis and Insights |
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| May / June 2004 |
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Six Sigma could be too slow for today's high speed race
Is Six Sigma the tortoise that can slow down a company's transformation?
With
so much at stake, Six Sigma's approach might not be the right fit for
manufacturers looking for fast returns, argues Anand Sharma, a
respected author and consultant. Sharma, author of The Perfect Engine,
was named a Hero of Manufacturing by Fortune magazine. He is cofounder
of TBM Consulting Group. You can reach him at: 800-438-5535 or by email
at:
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For a number of years, I
have tried to be diplomatic when executives asked my advice about
competing improvement programs. Lean and Six Sigma have different
strengths, I would say. Using kaizen teams, lean is fast and direct,
creating immediate improvements and momentum toward one-piece flow. Six
Sigma is analytical and narrowly focused, capable of rooting out hidden
abnormality.
Many companies have been using both programs side-by-side, creating
scenarios in which black belts and "kaizen warriors" fight for
resources and attention. The struggle and confusion that ensues has
proved time and again that the two methodologies should not be
implemented as separate but equal; one program must take the helm. But
which one?
To read Anand Sharma's Parting Shot analysis on why Six Sigma might be too slow, click on the link below.
http://www.advancedmanufacturing.com/MarApr04/parting.htm
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