The Lean approach to continuous improvement reduces the time from your customer request to the delivery of your product or service by eliminating non-value added steps in any work process. Six Sigma uses statistical analysis to identify areas of potential weakness in your processes. "Six Sigma" got its name from the fact that a sigma of 6 translates into only 3.4 defects per million opportunities. A "sigma rating" identifies the number of defects-per-million in any transactional, service, or manufacturing procedure. Most transactional businesses operate at 2 or 3 sigma, creating serious negative consequences for the business. For example, an organization operating at:

• 2.5 Sigma would generate 158,655 miscalculated pay stubs for every million processed
• 4 Sigma would drop 6,210 calls for every million calls to a call center
• 6 Sigma would allow only 3.4 errors for every million insurance claims processed

Although both Lean and Six Sigma can be taught in independent programs, Lean Six Sigma combines the best practices of each approach, combining the practical tools of Lean with the science of Six Sigma. Lean Six Sigma's goal is to eliminate defects and costs associated with poor quality. Lean makes sure we are working on the right activities, and Six Sigma makes sure we are doing the right things right the very first time.

The time to understand Lean Six Sigma is now. Even if your organization is not considering Lean Six Sigma today, there are two key reasons why you should become familiar with the concepts. First, if your organization does implement Lean Six Sigma, you won't be prepared. Any major organizational initiative needs to have the right pieces in place to succeed. HR can play a critical role in the success of a Lean Six Sigma program by:

• Selecting the right people to become Black Belts - the critical highly trained specialists who design and implement the company's Lean Six Sigma plan
• Developing a Black Belt retention strategy to keep these expensive employees satisfied, especially in a market where, a Black Belt is worth more than an MBA in obtaining prime positions and salaries
• Increasing the effectiveness of the project teams
• Rewarding and recognizing Black Belts and Lean Six Sigma teams
• Facilitating a successful Lean Six Sigma culture change

If you think your organization could benefit from Lean Six Sigma, please let us know by sending a request for more information to rturner@mail.sdsu.edu