Lean Vs. Six Sigma | Which Tool to Use and When Breakfast & Learn

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED. IF YOU WISH TO BE ADDED TO OUR WAITLIST, PLEASE CONTACT NICOLE PIERCE AT NICOLE.PIERCE@MRCPA.ORG OR (484) 655-4873.

Join us for this complimentary Breakfast and Learn!

For over two decades the integration of Lean and Six Sigma has been debated.

Those who align themselves strictly with either camp can’t even find common ground to respectfully disagree, and for those who attempt to blend the two into “Lean Six Sigma,” there’s a significant lack of consensus regarding its precise definition. Is it primarily a toolkit, a problem-solving methodology, or perhaps a cultural shift? These questions often remain unresolved.

During this discussion, we will delve into the four fundamental categories of issues that organizations commonly encounter, as well as the five overarching approaches that effectively address them.

Recognizing the fundamental nature of these challenges allows us to explore how Lean and Six Sigma can complement each other in the realm of effective problem-solving, without pitting them against one another. Instead of presenting them as mutually exclusive choices, we can develop a systematic approach to incorporate Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methods in a way that maximizes value for any organization.

In essence, it’s about moving away from the idea of a one-size-fits-all “best way” of doing things and towards a more versatile and adaptable mindset when it comes to problem-solving and process improvement.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hear about a real-life six sigma application at Ocean Spray presented by Emily Flores, Performance Excellence Lead. Emily will review her Green Belt certification project analysis steps and results which reduced fill level variation on 96 fill head production line.  Additionally, she will also review her current Black Belt project which is focused on fill valve replacement timing and kit cost.
• Gene Kaschak, Vice President, Continuous Improvement and Leadership Development Strategy at MRC will present examples of successful Lean manufacturing applications.
• Information will be shared about how you can get started on your continuous improvement journey using either or both of these approaches.

Who Should Attend

Whether you are just starting on a journey, an extreme Lean fan, a Six Sigma addict, or a Lean Six Sigma enthusiast come hear this perspective and consider how to apply the thinking to your own improvement program!

SPEAKER

Joel Smith | Director of Continuous Improvement | Keurig Dr Pepper, Inc. Frisco, TX

In his role leading process improvement for the organization, Joel is responsible for identifying and enabling successful execution of high-value opportunities within supply chain for the Fortune 500 beverage company.

He has served as the Chair of the Statistics Division of ASQ, on the iSixSigma editorial board, on the board of ISSSP, and as Chair of the Lean and Six Sigma World Conference. Joel co-authored the Applied Statistics Manual and authors the Random Thoughts column for Lean & Six Sigma Review. He was the 2022 recipient of the Award for the Advancement of Six Sigma by ASQ.

Joel received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in Statistics from Virginia Tech. Smith resides in Prosper, TX with his wife and two children.

Questions? Contact Nicole Pierce at (484) 655-4873 or nicole.pierce@mrcpa.org