Six Sigma - An Innovative Approach For Waste Reduction: A Case Study Of An Indian SME

This paper presents a case study aimed at reducing waste at an SME engaged in manufacturing of corrugated boxes. The Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control strategy of Six Sigma methodology was followed to identify, probable causes for wastages. After studying the system, and implementation of six sigma tools, an overall 22.7% waste reduction was achieved. Individually, out of a total seven processes, 5 showed waste reduction in excess of 40%. This reduction was statistically significant at P<0.05. The study confirmed successful implementation of six sigma to minimize waste generation and in terms saving in manufacturing costs or increasing the bottom line.