Author’s note: Textile Services recently posed a series of questions to three leading industry consultants on implementing Lean Six Sigma (LSS) programs in their companies. Developed by Japanese auto manufacturers, Lean Six Sigma seeks to improve productivity through the implementation of various efforts to reduce waste, while enhancing operational effectiveness. In other words, operators seek to do more with the people and systems they have, rather than relying solely on adding equipment and technology. Below are responses to a series of questions we posed to three industry thought leaders on Lean Six Sigma, including:

• Audrey Carmichael, strategy ...