Lean Six Sigma program helps Transplace cut operations costs, boost efficiency

Transplace recognizes the importance of eliminating waste and streamlining supply chain operations and has established a Lean Six Sigma program to train its employees and customers to optimize processes and efficiency. To date, Transplace has enabled the training or certification of 12 Black Belts and 65 Green Belts that lead and provide support on projects. This program has resulted in savings in excess of $5 million.

Lean Six Sigma provides tools needed to stay competitive and maximize resources. Companies using Lean Six Sigma can systematically evaluate operations and determine the root cause of errors and develop a plan for correcting them.

Transplace has these recommendations for successfully implementing a Lean Six Sigma program:

• Provide executive support and leadership: Programs have a better chance of positively influencing the culture with sustainable results when there is sponsorship and support from the highest levels.

• Dedicate qualified individuals: Commit employees with the appropriate skills and not just those that are available. It is important to have solid leadership driving the program and teaching these critical skills to others.

• Practice what you preach: Using Lean Six Sigma principles internally drives experience and knowledge on the program and strategies.

• Fully develop the program: Companies should consider committing 1 percent of their employees to a full-time Black Belt role and engage 10 percent of their employees part-time for leading Green Belt projects.

• Learn from others: Discussing successful Lean Six Sigma strategies with peers paves the way for building best practices and aids in avoiding common pitfalls. Continue to benchmark Lean Six Sigma program with others.

• Do not practice on customers: Becoming proficient at Lean Six Sigma strategies before engaging customers is critical in order to ensure positive results occur and problems are avoided during implementation.

To learn more, visit www.transplace.com.