Continuous improvement and value stream analysis through the lean DMAIC Six Sigma approach: a manufacturing case study from Ohio, USA

This study proposes the DMAIC Six Sigma approach with an emphasis on value stream analysis to reduce costs and increase capacity for a local manufacturing company in Northwest Ohio, USA. The DMAIC approach and case study demonstrated a broad application and how an organisation can significantly reduce costs, in this case, by nearly $660,000 per year. The paper identifies each stage of the DMAIC cycle and the Six Sigma tools that were applied, including a rigorous value mapping technique. This paper develops a framework that can be used as a template for cost reduction and capacity enhancement training.