Six Sigma methodology advantages for small- and medium-sized enterprises: A case study in the plumbing industry in the United States

Abstract

The intense competitive manufacturing environment results in small- and medium-sized enterprises searching for strategies to drive cost reduction and increase quality. While these are goals all organizations strive for, small- and medium-sized enterprises must accomplish these continuous improvement objectives with limited resources. The integration of quality tools with the Six Sigma methodology is fundamentally important in this process. This article describes the application of the Six Sigma methodology in a North American plumbing products small- and medium-sized enterprise. In this study, a cross-functional team uses the Six Sigma tools and methodology to reduce cycle time and increase sales. This case study presents a roadmap for studying the production cycle using the DMAIC process (define, measure, analyze, improve, and control). Using a market research study, the team quantitatively defines the problem, measures the process, analyzes the supporting data, and implements a series of solutions resulting in increased customer satisfaction. In addition, strategies are implemented to control the process improvements. The results offer evidence of Six Sigma effectiveness for small- and medium-sized enterprises and offer direction for small- and medium-sized enterprises interested in implementing a similar approach.