Six Sigma
Six Sigma is philosophy of process management developed by Motorola in the 1980s that uses statistical methods to minimize errors. Over the long term, manufacturing processes tend to deviate from the standard. Sigma is the unit used to measure these deviations from the required specification. How much deviation can be expected and will need to be remedied in real time is a function of the Six Sigma statistical methodology.
Lean Manufacturing
Lean manufacturing began in Japanese manufacturing in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is most often associated with Toyota. Its basic usefulness is in providing the tools to identify and eliminate waste throughout the manufacturing process, thereby increasing efficiency and profit. Quality improves as production time and cost are reduced. Toyota added an additional element, evenness of work flow, which helps expose inefficiencies in production that allow companies to redesign manufacturing processes for maximum profit.
Six Sigma Vs. Lean Manufacturing
Six Sigma is statistical calculation and prediction of error rates and timed correction of errors to maximize output capability. Lean manufacturing deals with concrete factors of manufacturing processes on a minute-by-minute basis in real time. Six Sigma can be used in a manufacturing environment, but also can be used for error reduction in nonmanufacturing fields. Lean is used primarily for manufacturing processes.
