Six sigma as a strategy for process improvement in industry 4.0

Abstract

Quality improvement methodologies are important for efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity in diverse sectors. Six Sigma being a management technique has been widely utilized to improve quality in manufacturing and service systems. This research is focused at the systematic identification of opportunities for possible implementation in the manufacturing and service sector. Firstly, a deep appraisal was conducted with a focus on the introduction to six sigma and previous research on related philosophy. Secondly, the application of six sigma in service and product based system was investigated. Finally, Six Sigma was applied to solve real life problem, using data obtained from a food processing industry while recommendation was made using six sigma from the perspective of industry 4.0. This globally recognized technique requires strategic implementation for an operational and optimal outcome to achieve a reduction of cost, errors, time and quality improvement for customers’ satisfaction. The systematic study serves as a bird's-eye view for strategists and professionals in the manufacturing and service industries to help boost quality, productivity, and performance in manufacturing and service based systems. Also, it is recommended that product and service-based sectors adopt the Six Sigma technique for optimal outcome in organizations with the excellent process and quality product using modern manufacturing technologies of Industry 4.0.