The Impacts of Risk on Deploying and Sustaining Lean Six Sigma Initiatives

Continuous improvement is used to enhance productivity and customer value. However, throughout the years, its efficacy dwindled. Thus, a hybrid methodology known as Lean Six Sigma was developed. It combines Lean and Six Sigma in a continuous improvement effort to address most challenges organizations face. However, risks are associated with deployment and implementation of Lean Six Sigma in differing organizations. Lean Six Sigma uses DMAIC to evaluate and measure efficacy. Successful execution of Lean practices depends on effective project management, support, and commitment from top management, employees, and stakeholders. An organization must be willing to change existing corporate culture, empower employees, and hire trained personnel to experience the benefits of Lean Six Sigma. This paper discusses results from implementing this hybrid methodology, including improved productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction. This paper concludes that Lean Six Sigma is an effective approach for any organization to use to ascertain continuous improvement.