Implementing Lean Six Sigma in the Medical Device Industry

A continuous effort to improve reliability and efficiency of processes is at the forefront of any successful business. One methodology that can have a crucial impact in this effort is Lean Six Sigma (LSS), which aims to reduce variability and wasteful activities within a company’s processes, in turn leading to improvements in areas such as customer satisfaction, employee morale, regulatory compliance, and profitability. In the medical device industry, where a seemingly minor error could be life-threatening, LSS can play a pivotal role in patient safety. This article presents a case study illustrating the benefits of LSS for a medical device manufacturing company, as well as one of its key customers.