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The Six Sigma Way: How GE, Motorola, and Other Top Companies are Honing Their Performance
Six Sigma was originally developed at Motorola in the 1980's and has become one of the most widely discussed and reported trends in business over the past two years, thanks largely to the phenomenal successes of the Six Sigma program at one of the world's most successful companies, GE.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published April 27, 2000
74 people are currently reading
982 people want to read
About the author
Peter S. Pande
54 books10 followersPete is a seasoned consultant in process improvement, organization change and Lean, Six Sigma initiatives – and is one of the recognized "experts" in the field. He has provided senior executive training and deployment consulting services in business improvement and Lean, Six Sigma efforts for such companies as GE Capital, Cisco Systems, Starwood Hotels, Honeywell, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Adobe, Givaudan, and many others.
Pete spent his early career in broadcasting and marketing before entering the management consulting and training field in the mid-1980s. He gained experience quickly, helping improve decision making and problem solving processes at large organizations in various industries including financial services, petrochemical, high tech, consumer products and health care. Pete formed Pivotal Resources in 1993 with the mission of helping clients build lasting success through practical and creative skills and streamlined processes.
He is author of the Change Leadership book, The Six Sigma Leader and has co-authored several other popular books including What is Six Sigma? and The Six Sigma Way — which was named one of the most influential business books of the past 20 years by Forbes magazine, translated into 16 languages, and recently updated to a Second Edition. He has also written articles for such publications as CEO Magazine, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, and leadership issues at Forbes.com.
He holds an MBA from National University in San Diego and degrees in English and History from the University of California.
Pete spent his early career in broadcasting and marketing before entering the management consulting and training field in the mid-1980s. He gained experience quickly, helping improve decision making and problem solving processes at large organizations in various industries including financial services, petrochemical, high tech, consumer products and health care. Pete formed Pivotal Resources in 1993 with the mission of helping clients build lasting success through practical and creative skills and streamlined processes.
He is author of the Change Leadership book, The Six Sigma Leader and has co-authored several other popular books including What is Six Sigma? and The Six Sigma Way — which was named one of the most influential business books of the past 20 years by Forbes magazine, translated into 16 languages, and recently updated to a Second Edition. He has also written articles for such publications as CEO Magazine, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, and leadership issues at Forbes.com.
He holds an MBA from National University in San Diego and degrees in English and History from the University of California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 6, 2012
Great information but it is a very dry,textbook style of book. If you make it bedtime reading material you will fall asleep and not retain anything. Best to read when you are alert and seeking information. Very process oriented.
January 12, 2010
Painful. I thought the book would be more of a commentary on how these big companies embraced the process and what their bottom-line success was. Instead, this book was more of an owners manual on Six Sigma. Not at all what I expected.
July 25, 2024
Another professional development audio book
December 23, 2011
This is a group of summaries of how companies succeeded. It also has a summary of VERY general descriptions of the Six Sigma program, but without giving the reader any true wisdom.
July 20, 2012
This recommendation is based on having read dozens of books in this genre.
Read this book, it is a straight forward read.
See other reviews for details.
Read this book, it is a straight forward read.
See other reviews for details.
April 23, 2020
The Six Sigma Way puts in your hand an easy-to-follow 5-step roadmap to implement Six Sigma in your organization, department or section. The roadmap starts high-level then is broken down to tools and techniques used as needed in the project.
What makes this book remarkable is the integration of Six Sigma in the overall system of the organization. Unlike many books, it does not start immediately with DMAIC, it rather starts with identifying the core processes and key customers of the business, defining customer requirements, measuring the current performance, prioritizing improvement initiatives and implementing them (which is the main play of Six Sigma), and last by expanding and integrating the Six Sigma system.
The authors tried to debunk several myths that haunted Six Sigma system. They emphasize the applicability of Six Sigma in service industries even more than in manufacturing. They tried to dispel fears about heavy statistics in Six Sigma projects. And they showed how tools and techniques should be used only when needed and where feasible and useful throughout the project life cycle.
Although it was not explicitly mentioned in the book, authors integrated Lean concepts with Six Sigma. Mapping the process and classifying each step as value-adding, non-value-adding, or enabler is a key concept in Lean to get rid of wastes (Lean) ahead of variation reduction (Six Sigma). Besides, sustaining a solution in the Control phase by standardizing procedures and using mistake-proofing techniques is all about Lean.
In support of the 5-step roadmap the book contains checklists for each of the DMAIC phases. One can use these checklists as gateway checks to move to the next phase. Dedicated sections for Advanced Tools in Six Sigma and for Glossary are a great help for both novice and experienced Six Sigma practitioners.
The bottom line, I highly recommend this book for any Six Sigma professional as a reference and as a training material for Six Sigma newbies.
What makes this book remarkable is the integration of Six Sigma in the overall system of the organization. Unlike many books, it does not start immediately with DMAIC, it rather starts with identifying the core processes and key customers of the business, defining customer requirements, measuring the current performance, prioritizing improvement initiatives and implementing them (which is the main play of Six Sigma), and last by expanding and integrating the Six Sigma system.
The authors tried to debunk several myths that haunted Six Sigma system. They emphasize the applicability of Six Sigma in service industries even more than in manufacturing. They tried to dispel fears about heavy statistics in Six Sigma projects. And they showed how tools and techniques should be used only when needed and where feasible and useful throughout the project life cycle.
Although it was not explicitly mentioned in the book, authors integrated Lean concepts with Six Sigma. Mapping the process and classifying each step as value-adding, non-value-adding, or enabler is a key concept in Lean to get rid of wastes (Lean) ahead of variation reduction (Six Sigma). Besides, sustaining a solution in the Control phase by standardizing procedures and using mistake-proofing techniques is all about Lean.
In support of the 5-step roadmap the book contains checklists for each of the DMAIC phases. One can use these checklists as gateway checks to move to the next phase. Dedicated sections for Advanced Tools in Six Sigma and for Glossary are a great help for both novice and experienced Six Sigma practitioners.
The bottom line, I highly recommend this book for any Six Sigma professional as a reference and as a training material for Six Sigma newbies.
March 28, 2010
A bit better than the average business book about six-sigma in that it's not just a sales tool trying to convince you to implement it at your company, but also gives tips on how you can better use the techniques at companies that are already using the business model.
November 20, 2021
My lackluster response probably has more to do with my misconception of what Six Sigma is rather than a direct review of the book.
The Six Sigma was was a tale of two stories to me. On one hand, I think the authors gave very thorough descriptions of the concepts that are included in Six Sigma thinking. There are very few cases where I felt I could have used additional information about the concepts discussed. On the other hand, I think the authors may have "over-hyped" the fundamental idea of Six Sigma into being an entire way of life when it is really just an organizational mindset and toolbox to be used when looking to specific business goals.
I have worked with organizations that are "Six Sigma" as well as many that are not. After reading this book, I can see the similarities between those "Six Sigma" companies, but find that there are all together too many common traits between the haves and have-nots for me to truly correlate this mindset into any TRULY meaningful business cheatcode.
I anticipate coming back to specific chapters in this book in the future to get a refresher on some of the non-native concepts like SIPOC-mapping. This definitely strikes me as a book worth reading if you are in a position to be able to enact any of the undertakings that fundamentally alter or challenge your business.
The Six Sigma was was a tale of two stories to me. On one hand, I think the authors gave very thorough descriptions of the concepts that are included in Six Sigma thinking. There are very few cases where I felt I could have used additional information about the concepts discussed. On the other hand, I think the authors may have "over-hyped" the fundamental idea of Six Sigma into being an entire way of life when it is really just an organizational mindset and toolbox to be used when looking to specific business goals.
I have worked with organizations that are "Six Sigma" as well as many that are not. After reading this book, I can see the similarities between those "Six Sigma" companies, but find that there are all together too many common traits between the haves and have-nots for me to truly correlate this mindset into any TRULY meaningful business cheatcode.
I anticipate coming back to specific chapters in this book in the future to get a refresher on some of the non-native concepts like SIPOC-mapping. This definitely strikes me as a book worth reading if you are in a position to be able to enact any of the undertakings that fundamentally alter or challenge your business.
May 8, 2017
Dry material but great for diving into Six Sigma. Will be getting my certification soon, so this was a good teaser.
February 10, 2018
Basic - into level for HS. This book is now outdated but even so, it lacks concrete data as it uses vague research.
December 12, 2019
Not a book to read just once. Like six sigma it cannot collect dust.
November 15, 2020
You learn nothing from this book. I want my time back.
June 2, 2022
This book offers an overview of Six Sigma. It's a good read for a "Yellow Belt" or anyone looking to learn more about the process.
November 8, 2023
Dated and sleepy.
June 24, 2024
Decent overview of Six Sigma and how to use it in companies.
January 20, 2013
This book is THE reference on Six Sigma. The authors define it as "A comprehensive and flexible system for achieving, sustaining and maximizing business success. Six Sigma is uniquely driven by close understanding of customer needs, disciplined use of facts, data, and statistical analysis, and diligent attention to managing, improving, and reinventing business processes."
This work is made up of three major sections. The first part provides an executive summary of this system. The second part focuses on the organizational aspects of adopting this system. The last part, focuses on the actual implementation of Six Sigma including the roadmap and tools. Also included in this book, are numerous appendices that provide further "practical support".
What sets this book apart is both the breadth and depth in which the topic is discussed. Whether one is a novice or expert, looking to obtain a high level overview or a deep understanding of the subject matter, this book is for you. In addition, the interspersed case studies, examples and tools make it very practical and applicable. After reading this book - one cannot but concur with the authors' closing remark: "We believe - and hope you agree - that there are enough essential, powerful, and valuable elements to make the Six Sigma system, in some way, part of every successful business. At the same time, we strongly encourage you to adapt the discipline and methods of Six Sigma to best impact your unique culture, industry, market position, people, and strategy. Our biggest fear is that people will "accept" or "reject" Six Sigma as it it were a thing (falling victim to the Tyranny of the Or) and not use it as a flexible system."
Below are key excerpts from the book, that I found particularly insightful:
1) "The Benefits of Six Sigma: 1) Generates sustained success...2) Sets a performance goal for everyone...3) Enhances value to customers...4) Accelerates the rate of improvement...5) Promotes learning and "cross pollination"...6) Executes strategic change"
2) "Six Themes of Six Sigma: 1) Genuine Focus on the Customer...2) Data- and Fact-Driven Management...3) Process focus, Management, and Improvement...4) Proactive Management...5) Boundaryless Collaboration...6) Drive for Perfection; Tolerance for Failure"
3) "Six Sigma Improvement and Management Strategies: 1) Process Improvement: Finding Targeted Solutions...2) Process Design/Redesign: Building a Better Business...3) Process Management: The Infrastructure for Six Sigma Leadership"
4) "In the Six Sigma Way, we will use and refer to a five-phase improvement cycle that has become increasingly common in Six Sigma organizations: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control - or DMAIC."
5) "...The ideal roadmap for establishing the Six Sigma system and launching improvements...1) Identify core processes and key customers. 2) Define customer requirements. 3) Measure current performance. 4) Prioritize, analyze, and implement improvements. 5) Expand and integrate the Six Sigma system."
6) "Five-step measurement implementation model: 1) Select what to measure 2) Develop operational definitions 3) Identify data sources 4) Prepare collection & sampling plan 5) Implement and refine measurement"
7) "We can offer an assessment model, however, based on two major conditions - both of which must be met if process design/redesign is going to work: 1) A major need, threat, or opportunity exists: a) Shifts in customer needs/requirements...b) Demand for greater flexibility...c) New technologies...d) New or changed rules and regulations...e) Competitors are changing...f) Old assumptions (or paradigms) are invalid...g) The current process is "a mess"...2) You're ready and willing to take on the risk: a) Longer lead-time for change is acceptable...b) Resources and talent are available...c) Leaders, and the organization as a whole, will support the effort...d) The "Risk Profile" is acceptable."
8) "Process Value Analysis: As processes get more complex, they tend to insulate people from the real reason that customers patronize a business. "Value Analysis" is a way of reemphasizing the key raison d'etre of a business or process by looking at work from the external customer's point of view. In the analysis, we assign each process step to one of three categories: 1) Value Adding...2) Value Enabling...3) Non-Value-Adding"
9) "Twelve Keys To Success: 1) The Six Sigma Efforts to Business Strategy and Priorities 2) Position Six Sigma as an Improved Way to Manage for Today 3) Keep the Message Simple and Clear 4) Develop Your Own Path to Six Sigma 5) Focus on Short-Term Results 6) Focus on Long-Term Growth and Development 7) Publicize Results, Admit Setbacks, and Learn from Both 8) Make and Investment to Make It Happen 9) Use Six Sigma Tools Wisely 10) Link Customers, Process, Data, and Innovation to Build the Six Sigma System 11) Make Top Leaders Responsible and Accountable 12) Make Learning an Ongoing Activity"
This work is made up of three major sections. The first part provides an executive summary of this system. The second part focuses on the organizational aspects of adopting this system. The last part, focuses on the actual implementation of Six Sigma including the roadmap and tools. Also included in this book, are numerous appendices that provide further "practical support".
What sets this book apart is both the breadth and depth in which the topic is discussed. Whether one is a novice or expert, looking to obtain a high level overview or a deep understanding of the subject matter, this book is for you. In addition, the interspersed case studies, examples and tools make it very practical and applicable. After reading this book - one cannot but concur with the authors' closing remark: "We believe - and hope you agree - that there are enough essential, powerful, and valuable elements to make the Six Sigma system, in some way, part of every successful business. At the same time, we strongly encourage you to adapt the discipline and methods of Six Sigma to best impact your unique culture, industry, market position, people, and strategy. Our biggest fear is that people will "accept" or "reject" Six Sigma as it it were a thing (falling victim to the Tyranny of the Or) and not use it as a flexible system."
Below are key excerpts from the book, that I found particularly insightful:
1) "The Benefits of Six Sigma: 1) Generates sustained success...2) Sets a performance goal for everyone...3) Enhances value to customers...4) Accelerates the rate of improvement...5) Promotes learning and "cross pollination"...6) Executes strategic change"
2) "Six Themes of Six Sigma: 1) Genuine Focus on the Customer...2) Data- and Fact-Driven Management...3) Process focus, Management, and Improvement...4) Proactive Management...5) Boundaryless Collaboration...6) Drive for Perfection; Tolerance for Failure"
3) "Six Sigma Improvement and Management Strategies: 1) Process Improvement: Finding Targeted Solutions...2) Process Design/Redesign: Building a Better Business...3) Process Management: The Infrastructure for Six Sigma Leadership"
4) "In the Six Sigma Way, we will use and refer to a five-phase improvement cycle that has become increasingly common in Six Sigma organizations: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control - or DMAIC."
5) "...The ideal roadmap for establishing the Six Sigma system and launching improvements...1) Identify core processes and key customers. 2) Define customer requirements. 3) Measure current performance. 4) Prioritize, analyze, and implement improvements. 5) Expand and integrate the Six Sigma system."
6) "Five-step measurement implementation model: 1) Select what to measure 2) Develop operational definitions 3) Identify data sources 4) Prepare collection & sampling plan 5) Implement and refine measurement"
7) "We can offer an assessment model, however, based on two major conditions - both of which must be met if process design/redesign is going to work: 1) A major need, threat, or opportunity exists: a) Shifts in customer needs/requirements...b) Demand for greater flexibility...c) New technologies...d) New or changed rules and regulations...e) Competitors are changing...f) Old assumptions (or paradigms) are invalid...g) The current process is "a mess"...2) You're ready and willing to take on the risk: a) Longer lead-time for change is acceptable...b) Resources and talent are available...c) Leaders, and the organization as a whole, will support the effort...d) The "Risk Profile" is acceptable."
8) "Process Value Analysis: As processes get more complex, they tend to insulate people from the real reason that customers patronize a business. "Value Analysis" is a way of reemphasizing the key raison d'etre of a business or process by looking at work from the external customer's point of view. In the analysis, we assign each process step to one of three categories: 1) Value Adding...2) Value Enabling...3) Non-Value-Adding"
9) "Twelve Keys To Success: 1) The Six Sigma Efforts to Business Strategy and Priorities 2) Position Six Sigma as an Improved Way to Manage for Today 3) Keep the Message Simple and Clear 4) Develop Your Own Path to Six Sigma 5) Focus on Short-Term Results 6) Focus on Long-Term Growth and Development 7) Publicize Results, Admit Setbacks, and Learn from Both 8) Make and Investment to Make It Happen 9) Use Six Sigma Tools Wisely 10) Link Customers, Process, Data, and Innovation to Build the Six Sigma System 11) Make Top Leaders Responsible and Accountable 12) Make Learning an Ongoing Activity"
July 31, 2017
"TQM on steriods."
5 step core competencies: identify key customers and processes, define customer requirements, measure current performance, analyze/prioritize/implement improvements, expand and integrate s sigma system
5 step core competencies: identify key customers and processes, define customer requirements, measure current performance, analyze/prioritize/implement improvements, expand and integrate s sigma system
March 15, 2017
I wanted more nuts and bolts rather than the more general overview that this book provided. It is clear that this was written by a consultant that also was looking to sell a handbook and be hired on by a company. If you are looking to improve your six sigma skills I would recommend looking elsewhere.
January 13, 2013
My review is based on the Abridged Audiobook. I guess I may have been expecting something else. This book is a great introduction to people who have little or no experience with any kind of Continuous Improvement effort and the challenges they will face. This book did a great job of talking about cultural changes all Improvement efforts will take. In the audiobook; however, there was little explanation of what tools drive the Six Sigma Way. I like that the author did not put down other efforts such as Lean or TOC but rather said that all efforts have their plus and minus.
Not bad as change books go, but I don't have a much greater understanding of 6 Sigma than I did before I listened to the audiobook.
Not bad as change books go, but I don't have a much greater understanding of 6 Sigma than I did before I listened to the audiobook.
July 25, 2011
I listened to the abridged audio version. Based on that, I wouldn't recommend it. Maybe the book has more detail, but this audio version was full of summarized info that I could have gotten from a Wikipedia article.
March 5, 2017
Great and comprehensible introduction
I am chocked that this great book and ebook is only read for 30 min in average (my kindle says). It is a great and comprehensible introduction to the 6sigma thinking and takes 10 hours with real and fantastic examples!
I am chocked that this great book and ebook is only read for 30 min in average (my kindle says). It is a great and comprehensible introduction to the 6sigma thinking and takes 10 hours with real and fantastic examples!
October 12, 2025
Pulled this down from the book shelf recently and re-listened to the audio CDs in the car - well worth it! So many lessons from Six Sigma to help other change management and business transformation efforts - including those upon which I am working.
October 3, 2007
Help my project much ..;)
January 3, 2008
Great overview of the methodology
January 19, 2008
Well, it's pretty good for a six-sigma how-to. Whether six-sigma can live up to its promises is another question entirely.
January 24, 2008
If you like business books, this is a must read.
August 18, 2008
A good book to give to your friends who want an introductory understanding of Six Sigma
July 10, 2009
A good introduction to Six Sigma statistics-based business improvement methods.
January 22, 2014
pretty sure i would never have read this book if it wasnt for me mistakingly believing i wanted to be an engineer. however, for a school book, it was pretty good.
September 22, 2014
Not worthy to waste time
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews