10.3.4 How can SMEs take advantage of the Six Sigma approach?
There are many considerations that a company must take into account before embarking on the Six Sigma approach. It has been reported to be extremely useful for larger companies but seems to be discouraging for smaller companies, as it requires extensive training, it bears high investment costs, full time efforts, routine work and implies the use of complicated statistics. 1 |
Runchana Sinthavalai proposes a number of solutions for the implementation of Six Sigma in SMEs, such as avoiding a complicated system through the provision of simple terms, the adoption of certain parts and tools of the approach, adopting a self-training approach rather than hiring external consultants. She also suggests the integration of the Six Sigma activities as part of the company´s regular activities.2
1 Special Issue of the International Journal of the Computer, the Internet and Management, Vol. 14 No.SP1, August, 2006, A Methodology to Support Six Sigma Implementation in SMEs as eLearning, Runchana Sinthavalai (p. 23.1).
2 Ibid (p. 23.2)