Lean Six Sigma
Lean and Six Sigma: What is it?
•	Lean and Six Sigma are both process improvement methodologies.
•	Lean is about speed and efficiency.
•	Six Sigma is about precision and accuracy � leading to data-driven decisions.
•	Both rooted in the 1980s (and earlier).
	-	Lean arose as a method to optimize auto manufacturing.
	-	Six Sigma evolved as a quality initiative to reduce variance in the semiconductor industry.
Why Lean and Six Sigma?
•	Six Sigma will eliminate defects but it will not address the question of how to optimize process flow.
•	Lean principles exclude the advanced statistical tools often required to achieve the process capabilities needed to be truly "lean".
•	Each approach can result in dramatic improvement, while utilizing both methods simultaneously holds the promise of being able to address all types of process problems with the most appropriate toolkit.
	-	For example, inventory reduction not only requires reducing batch sizes and linking operations by using Lean, but also minimizing process variation by utilizing Six Sigma tools.