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Lean Six Sigma That Works

I selected the book “Lean Six Sigma That Works” based on the management topics of leadership and organization. I felt that these two topics would be challenged on all levels of implementing a hybrid program like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma. I was interested in how the author would address these topics and how effectively he would differentiate these from other management topics. As I expected, both topics were reiterated many times throughout the book as the basic building blocks of the Lean Six-Sigma philosophy.
The leadership function was illustrated on various levels. This cornerstone to the program is essential in ensuring that the company will meet the objectives set forth in determining to adopt the methodology. Several other examples of leadership were highlighted at different levels throughout the book illustrating how leadership makes the process flow in differing environments.
The organization was also a very strong theme throughout the book. This topic stressed the importance of the organization as a whole and how it requires a company-wide effort in order for this system to succeed. The author gave different perspectives from various management levels within the organization allowing for multiple variations within the scope of implementation.
Of all of the books that I had to choose from, I chose this topic more for my personal curiosity than to find a book with close ties to the classroom topics. This book deals with combining two highly sought after company processes that I have been involved with at several companies. Throughout my career, I have always worked within the manufacturing realm and have seen many of these programs come and go. Many of these programs start off very strong, but as soon as it comes down to meeting the monthly numbers or maintaining compliance to the program, the program becomes much less of a necessity and the commitment starts to fade. I have seen one exception to this phenomena, the Six Sigma program continues to...