What are the best tools and methods for prioritizing lean six sigma opportunities based on stakeholder needs?

1 Stakeholder analysis

Stakeholder analysis is the process of identifying and understanding the interests, influence, and expectations of the people and groups who are affected by or can affect your lean six sigma projects. Stakeholder analysis helps you to align your goals and actions with the needs and values of your stakeholders, as well as to anticipate and manage potential risks and conflicts. You can use various tools and methods for stakeholder analysis, such as stakeholder mapping, surveys, interviews, focus groups, or SWOT analysis.

2 Value proposition

Value proposition is the statement that summarizes how your lean six sigma project will deliver benefits to your stakeholders, especially your customers. Value proposition helps you to communicate and validate the purpose and scope of your project, as well as to measure its success and impact. You can use tools and methods such as value proposition canvas, customer journey map, or Kano model to define and refine your value proposition.

3 Project selection matrix

Project selection matrix is a tool that helps you to compare and prioritize your lean six sigma opportunities based on two criteria: value and ease. Value refers to the potential benefits or savings that your project can generate for your stakeholders, such as increased revenue, reduced costs, improved quality, or enhanced satisfaction. Ease refers to the feasibility and resources required to implement your project, such as time, budget, skills, or technology. You can use tools and methods such as impact-effort matrix, QFD matrix, or PUGH matrix to create and score your project selection matrix.

4 Risk assessment

Risk assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating the potential threats and uncertainties that can affect your lean six sigma project, such as technical, financial, operational, or human factors. Risk assessment helps you to prioritize your project based on the likelihood and severity of the risks, as well as to plan and implement mitigation and contingency strategies. You can use tools and methods such as risk matrix, FMEA, or fault tree analysis to conduct and document your risk assessment.

5 Stakeholder engagement

Stakeholder engagement is the process of involving and communicating with your stakeholders throughout your lean six sigma project, from planning to execution to evaluation. Stakeholder engagement helps you to build trust and rapport with your stakeholders, as well as to solicit and incorporate their feedback and suggestions. You can use tools and methods such as stakeholder register, RACI matrix, or communication plan to plan and execute your stakeholder engagement activities.

6 Continuous improvement

Continuous improvement is the principle and practice of constantly monitoring and evaluating your lean six sigma project results and processes, and making adjustments and improvements based on data and feedback. Continuous improvement helps you to ensure that your project meets or exceeds the expectations and needs of your stakeholders, as well as to identify and seize new opportunities for further enhancement. You can use tools and methods such as PDCA cycle, control charts, or gemba walks to implement and sustain your continuous improvement efforts.

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?