How do you form a Lean Six Sigma team?

1 Define the project scope

Before you form a Lean Six Sigma team, you need to have a clear and specific project scope that defines the problem, the goal, the scope, the timeline, and the expected outcomes. The project scope should be aligned with the strategic objectives and priorities of your organization, and should be validated by the sponsors and stakeholders. The project scope will help you determine the size, skills, roles, and responsibilities of your team members.

2 Identify the team roles

A Lean Six Sigma team typically consists of different roles that have distinct functions and contributions. The sponsor, who is the senior leader or executive responsible for initiating, supporting, and approving the project, is the most important role. The champion, who is the middle manager or director who oversees the project and provides guidance and resources, is also essential. The certified Lean Six Sigma professional acting as project leader is responsible for leading the team and managing the project activities and deliverables. Team members are subject matter experts, process owners, or stakeholders who participate in the project and execute tasks and actions. Finally, a coach or mentor - an experienced Lean Six Sigma practitioner - provides coaching and mentoring to the project leader and team members.

3 Select the team members

The selection of the team members is a critical step that can affect the success and performance of the project. When selecting the team members, you should take into account their skills and knowledge, such as technical, analytical, communication, or problem-solving skills. Additionally, it is important to consider the availability and commitment of the team members, who should be able to dedicate enough time and effort to the project. Finally, diversity and compatibility are key elements when forming a team; different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences should be present in the group while still sharing a common vision and respect for each other.

4 Train the team members

Once you have selected the team members, you need to train them on the basics of Lean Six Sigma, the project scope and objectives, the roles and responsibilities, and the tools and techniques. The training should be tailored to the needs and levels of the team members, and should include both theoretical and practical sessions. The training should also cover the expectations and norms of the team, such as communication, collaboration, feedback, and conflict resolution.

5 Empower the team members

To form a Lean Six Sigma team that can work effectively and efficiently, you need to empower the team members to take ownership and responsibility for the project. This can be done by providing them with clear goals, guidelines, and resources, as well as encouraging them to share their ideas, opinions, and suggestions. Furthermore, supporting them to make decisions and solve problems, recognizing and rewarding their achievements and contributions, and creating a culture of trust, respect, and learning will all help to empower the team.

6 Monitor and evaluate the team performance

The last step to form a Lean Six Sigma team is to monitor and evaluate the team performance throughout the project. You should track and measure the progress, results, and benefits of the project, and compare them with the baseline and the target. You should also collect and analyze the feedback and data from the team members, the sponsors, the stakeholders, and the customers. You should use the information to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of the team, and to make adjustments and improvements as needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?