Contractor Work Preparation Process Improvement Using Lean Six Sigma

Lean, six sigma and lean sigma: fads or real process improvement methods?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore if six sigma and lean are new methods, or if they are repackaged versions of previously popular methods – total quality management (TQM) and just-in-time (JIT). Design/methodology/approach – The study is based on a critical comparison of lean with JIT and six sigma with TQM, a study of the measure of the publication frequency – the number of aca...

Lean six sigma process improvement in specimen receiving to improve stat chemistry turnaround times

  Objective: As a consequence of stat turnaround times (TATs) chronically exceeding 60 minutes, our laboratory was facing pressure to divert limited resources toward the implementation of an emergency department satellite laboratory. Peer-reviewed literature in clinical laboratory quality assurance and improvement indicates that between 60-70% of errors occur at the pre-analytical level.  Thus...

Lean Six Sigma Terminology

Affinity Diagram – A tool used to organize and present large amounts of data (ideas, issues, solutions, problems) into logical categories based on user perceived relationships and conceptual frame working. Often used in the form of “sticky notes” sent up to the front of the room in brainstorming exercises, and then grouped by facilitator and workers. Final diagram shows relationship between the...

Software Verification Process Improvement Proposal Using Six Sigma

In the rapidly growing modern telecommunications industry, software quality and reliability requirements are in contrast to the shorter time to market and higher complexity requirements dictated by strong competition on the telecommunications market. In such a rapidly changing environment, software development organization must improve almost on a daily basis in order to achieve the operational...

Lean Six Sigma and the Quest for Continuous Improvement