Lean six sigma tools for improving administrative processes in different sectors: a systematic review

Abstract

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is widely accepted as an effective management concept in minimising wastes and variation of the processes. However, few studies can be found to integrate LSS for improving administrative processes in manufacturing and services industries. Out of the practicing LSS tools, identification of the most suitable LSS tools for each stage of LSS is vital to streamline the administrative process. Although, studies were conducted on lean implementation in different sectors in ad-hoc manner, dearth of studies were focused to compare the existing literature in detail. Therefore, the study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) on LSS tools used in administrative processes in different sectors for every LSS stage. This SLR was conducted to addressing the above-mentioned research gap by adopting to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline for healthcare, education, public administration and other sectors. The initial repository comprised with 1817 and the final repository was comprised with 23 articles. The SLR has contributed to the theory by exploring suitable LSS tools and techniques for each DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analysis, Improvement, and Control) stages of LSS. Out of the identified tools, SIPOC and project charter can be recommended for the define stage whereas, process map is suggested for the measure stage. Further, Cause and effect analysis, Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and control charts are recommended for analysis, improvement and control stages. Further, some specific LSS tools were screened as a specifically applied to a particular sector. Ultimately, the results will propose to industry by applying appropriate LSS tools for administrative processes in different sectors which are not transformed into LSS incorporated internal environment.