Misconceptions about Lean Six Sigma vs Kaizen

Originally Published 9.29.2017

"The Six Sigma Guy," says:

QUESTION#1: Is it correct that in Lean Six Sigma, only belters are qualified to solve problems?

ANSWER: BIG NO. That line of thinking shows the IGNORANCE of those who do not completely understand or intentionally do not want to understand Lean Six Sigma. Lean Six Sigma belters are not the only ones qualified to solve problems. Lean Six Sigma Belters are "facilitators" of the process improvement tools and methodology- process owners are the real problem solvers. 

QUESTION#2: WHICH IS BETTER? Lean/Kaizen OR Lean Six Sigma?

ANSWER: No methodology is "superior" to the other. It depends on the need and the type of problems the company has. 

Kaizen is for quick wins and quick improvements. If one can already identify the root causes, using Lean Six Sigma's DMAIC (which usually takes 4 to 6 months to complete) is an overkill. If you already know the root causes and what to do, "just do it".

On the other hand, Lean Six Sigma's DMAIC methodology is for recurring problems. Problems that you have attempted to solve several times but still stick still recur. It means some of the other root causes are still not known. DMAIC is the methodology to use when you deep dive for root causes.

What's FUNNY is, until now, there are still debates happening between "Kaizen die-hard practitioners" vs. Loyal Lean Six Sigma practitioners. It shows the ignorance of the so-called 'experts' who avoid understanding the 'other' best practice which really is complimentary to what he/she knows.

Again, there is no 'superior' best practice between Lean Six Sigma and Kaizen. The two compliments. The type of problem would define what one uses between the two.

QUESTION#3: Lean Six Sigma is inferior to Kaizen because looking at Motorola, Kodak, and several Lean Six Sigma companies, they are no longer on top of their industry.

ANSWER: Lean Six Sigma (even Kaizen and Lean) doesn't tell a company if its products and services are marketable. Even if Kodak produces a 99.9997% yield of films, at this digital time, no one will buy films. Lean Six Sigma (even Kaizen and Lean) doesn't address product/service innovation. It focuses on processes.
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