Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a system of practices to systematically improve processes by eliminating defects. Since it was originally developed, Six Sigma has become an element of many Total Quality Management initiatives. It's core concepts are: Critical to Quality, Defect, Process Capability, Variation, Stable Operations and Design for Six Sigma.

Lean

Lean manufacturing is a management philosophy focusing on reduction of the seven wastes to improve overall customer value: Transportation, Inventory, Motion, Waiting time, Over-production, Processing Itself and Defective Product. By eliminating waste, quality is improved, production time and costs are reduced.

Kaizen

Kaizen is an approach to productivity improvement, developed by American experts and the Japanese manufacturers after World War II. The process includes the elimination of waste, just-in-time delivery, production load leveling of amount and types, standardised work, paced moving lines, right-sized equipment, etc. In this aspect it describes something very similar to the assembly line used in mass production.

DFSS

Design for Six Sigma is a separate and emerging discipline related to Six Sigma quality processes. The tools and order used in Six Sigma require a process to be in place and functioning. DFSS has a different objective, that of determining the needs of customers and the business, and driving those needs into the product solution created. DFSS is relevant to the complex system/product synthesis phase, especially in the context of unprecedented system development.