I came across this article and liked what I read. The article claims that 3M, makers of the best product of our time (Post-it® Notes), started their Six Sigma program in 2001. The article also says that Six Sigma is largely responsible for 3M realizing a $1 billion margin gain from 2001 to 2005. This alone made me smile. But there is more.In 2005, 3M added Lean to their arsenal. They hired an outside firm to get things rolling. Now 3M starts with value stream mapping and then applies both Six Sigma and Lean tools as needed.
I don’t know a lot about 3M and am sure they still have their struggles, as even the best do. But I am pleased to see how they have chosen to use both Lean and Six Sigma to better their business. I hope to see this trend continue.
Until next time, I wish you all the best on your journey towards continuous improvement.
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