What is Lean Six Sigma?
Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is a combination of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Lean focuses on efficiency through eliminating process wastes and adding value, while Six Sigma focuses on quality and consistency through reducing process variation.
While they are two different processes, their shared customer-centric approach, data-driven nature, and focus on efficiency have allowed them to evolve into a balanced solution that combat inefficiency. Together, they guide us in achieving more efficient service delivery and creating a continuous improvement culture across UBC.
How is Lean Six Sigma applied in our work?
Our methodologies serve as our foundation to establishing efficient and effective operational practices, and ultimately supporting UBC’s academic mission and strategic priorities.
Team members will be trained in Lean Six Sigma methodology and will have a support system of coaches through the Operational Excellence Centre of Excellence. Together we will work side-by-side with units on their initiatives using the phases in DMAIC, a five-step framework in Lean Six Sigma that utilizes tools to improve service delivery:
- Define: Understand the problem
- Measure: Gather data and conduct current state analysis and identify risks
- Analyze: Analyze data to identify the root cause of the problem and make data-driven decisions
- Improve: Define and implement solution
- Control: Monitor, adjust and make the improvement sustainable
Through training and coaching in Lean Six Sigma techniques, we can help teams across UBC build and maintain their capacity for problem solving and continuous improvement.
How can I learn more about Lean Six Sigma?
We have partnered with UBC’s Sauder School of Business to deliver Lean Six Sigma training for beginners, seasoned professionals, and leaders at UBC.
If you have any questions about Sauder’s courses or Lean Six Sigma in general, please contact the VPFO Project Management Office.