The critical success factors of LSS in Chinese manufacturing industry

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) has been implemented worldwide for many years and has been successful in many organizations. This paper aims to investigate the differences in CSF during the critical implementation process of LSS in this case study based on previous literature. Additionally, the reasons LSS is difficult to implement in Chinese manufacturing organizations are also investigated and discussed from the cultural perspective. The following are the findings of this multiple case study: Proposition 1: LSS promoter’s soft, or communication skills are more important than hard skills, or knowledge of LSS technology and tools during the LSS promotion. Proposition 2: Process management, including supporting process establishment and process standardization, will effectively enhance the sustainability of LSS implementation. Process management should be constantly improved based on the progress of LSS implementation. Proposition 3: Employees’ loyalty and union are helpful in LSS implementation. Proposition 4: It is easier for small companies than large ones to implement true LSS. In large enterprises, the LSS implementation tends to become superficial or “fake”... ...