A hybrid methodology, Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is designed to accommodate global challenges and constraints by capitalizing on Six Sigma and Lean Thinking. LSS incorporates best practices from programs such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Capability Maturity Model, and Total Quality Management.
International Lean Six Sigma practitioners must understand the dynamics of LSS, along with its cultural aspects and regulations.
Lean Six Sigma: International Standards and Global Guidelines, Second Edition provides this understanding.
The book assumes that the overall goal of operational excellence is to ensure that organizational tasks and activities are being performed to the best of their process capabilities. It defines continuous improvement as activities that support and empower environments to make flexible decisions that lead to ongoing improvement and effectiveness. Coverage includes:
- New global LSS standards
- International implementation of process improvement programs
- New international LSS applications
- International Lean Six Sigma areas of competency
The book defines many of the terms popularized by process improvement programs, such as center of excellence and business transformation. It documents these practices and explains how to perform future activities in accordance with the recorded practices. Exploring international approaches to Lean Six Sigma, it details the new ISO Standard for Six Sigma and also addresses the role of project management in LSS.
Illustrating the synergies between Lean and Six Sigma and how they partner with other process improvement programs and initiatives, this book is an ideal study guide for those preparing to take the LSS Black Belt certification exam.
Terra Vanzant-Stern, PhD, is a PMP and Six Sigma Master Black Belt. She also holds certifications in SPHR/GPHR. Dr. Stern is the chair-elect for the American Society for Quality (ASQ) Lean Enterprise Division (LED). LED is the largest professional and trade association governing Lean principals.
Dr. Stern chaired the ASQ Rocky Mountain Quality 2013 conference in February 2013 and speaks at regional conferences. Her most-recent book is
Lean Six Sigma: International Standards and Global Guidelines. She was the recipient of the Educator of the Year award for the State of Colorado as well as Facilitator of the Year for the Lean Six Society.
Dr. Stern is also the author of
HR Concepts for Project Managers and
Lean Six Sigma: Practical Bodies of Knowledge as well as a number of white papers on Leadership Development and Process Improvement. Her new book,
Lean Project Management, will be publishing soon.
Dr. Stern is a principal for SSD Global Solutions and has personally trained over 500 individuals for Lean Six Sigma certification. SSD Global Solutions was awarded the Lean Government contract for the State of Colorado, which was recently renewed for the 2014-2015 contract period.
