Lean and Six Sigma are two improvement traditions that combine well. The toolkit uses tools from both, and this lesson explains which does what so you pick the right one.
Lean removes waste and improves flow
Anything that consumes time or resources without adding value for the customer is waste. Lean tools make waste visible and rearrange work so it flows.
Six Sigma reduces variation and defects
When the same process gives different results on different days, customers notice. Six Sigma tools measure variation and find its causes.
Together: faster and more reliable
Most small-business problems involve both delay and inconsistency. The toolkit’s project template draws from both traditions as needed.
Involve at least one person who does the work every day in this step, because they know the workarounds that never appear in the documented procedure.
Action Step
Write down two recurring problems in your business and tag each as mainly a flow problem, a variation problem, or both.
This lesson is educational content for founders and operators. It is general information, not professional advice for your specific company. Adapt every framework to your own situation and consult a qualified professional where a decision carries legal, financial, or tax consequences.