Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores synergies among Lean Six Sigma, Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), and Value Engineering by identifying opportunities where they can be used together to increase the likelihood of obtaining improvements beyond the capability of just one approach. DFSS was developed to apply Six Sigma principles in product design. A common rule of thumb is that only 20% of cost can be affected by improving the efficiency of processes, while 80% of costs are locked in during design. While Six Sigma requires a process to be in place and functioning, the objective of DFSS is to determine the needs of the customers and the business and to drive those needs into the product/process solution. DFSS aims to create a product/process by optimally building the efficiencies of Six Sigma methodology into the product/ process before implementation.