Combined Usage of Theory of Constraints, Lean and Six Sigma in Quality Assurance of Manufacturing Processes

Abstract

Classic intention, which pursues the management of any company – is to improve the quality and competitiveness of its own production, aiming at the end to speed up the receiving of profit. Such an implementation is primarily made possible by optimizing production processes. The manufacturing processes are influenced by various factors that may lead to deviations from the process requirements. Management of processes is needed to counteract such change in the process.Processes that are not managed, can lead to the production of a large number of defective products earlier before the detection of nonconformity, causing significant damage and lead to disruption of production schedules. It is important to develop an effective system of management and control, capable of detecting variations in the process as early as possible so you can take corrective action before it is produced by a large number of defective products. To optimize production processes in quality assurance the following systems have been known as Theory of Constraints, Lean, Six Sigma. Typically, these systems are used separately. However, their combination and comprehensive utilization can be more efficient and can give a much better result.As a rule, first by using Theory of Constraints (TOC) the bottleneck is defined – weak area, which is an obstacle of improving of the quality and efficiency of the company and profit increasing. Then Lean tools manage this area. And the next phase includes Six Sigma, which allows you to receive a significant increase in the effectiveness and efficiency of production and profit.Each of these techniques is unique and their complex usage is important in managing the quality of processes and products.