What is Lean Sigma for Superior Service? An Introduction

So what is the purpose of this blog, Lean Sigma for Superior Service? Well there are two purposes. I've been told I have the ability to explain basic Lean and Six Sigma concepts in a way that is easy for those with little knowledge of these topics to easily grasp. I thought I would test that assumption and let you be the judge. I also have been looking for an opportunity to improve my writing skills, so I decided to begin two blogs and commit myself to sustaining them. The other blog, Duane Long's Blog will cover more general topics unrelated to continuous improvement.

Please allow me to introduce myself. I have been using Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to improve processes for more than 17 years. I actually started using lean concepts while I practiced as a manufacturing engineer before I had even heard of these methodologies.  My early experiences included creating standard work at an instrumentation manufacturer and eliminating waste in electronic subassembly processes back in the mid 1990's.  Using these techniques was very successful in improving quality and productivity.  In addition, I found that I loved working with others to improve processes.

I received my first formal exposure to continuous improvement in 1999. My company at the time had a well defined lean program and a committed Lean Office.  I was selected to participate in several Kaizen events. Eventually, I led several successful events myself.

My obvious passion for continuous improvement eventually led to me being selected to receive six sigma black belt training, with a goal of certification. The training was completed, the final exam was passed with an excellent score, but the certification project was not completed. A few roadblocks, including the sudden death of one of our key team members, slowed our progress. We perservered through these events, but on the day our team was to receive formal tollgate approval for implementing change, it was announced that our facility was closing. The project was canceled.

Over the next several years I continued to use Lean and Six Sigma in process improvement roles in manufacturing, human resources, sales, and aircraft maintenance. I continued to lead projects that benefited my employers bottom line. I also gained additional experience in program deployment, training development, training delivery, and coaching of other Lean Sigma belts.  I didn't aggressively pursue certification for 9 years for numerous reasons, but at the suggestion of my manager at the time, I became a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt in 2012.

Since certification, I have continued my continuous improvement career in healthcare and financial services. My next goal is to become certified as a Master Black Belt soon by continuing to provide bottom line results for my employer focusing on productivity and quality improvements.

So, enough about me. Just a little level setting with my history. This blog will rely on my experiences, both good and bad, to hopefully provide the audience with my perspective of the world of continuous improvement. Hopefully this perspective can begin some great conversations, and that others will share freely their perspectives as well.

I can't wait!