Abstract
In this paper, we apply the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) approach to demonstrate the continuous improvement in forecasting the manufacturing costs for a flat panel display equipment manufacturer. Soft systems methodology (SSM) was selected as a tool and applied to the improvement phase of the LSS approach, as it is a problem-solving methodology that is suitable for complex problems. A very important aspect of SSM is its reliance on being a participative process where knowledge and resultants can only be gained through debate. The purpose of the debate is finding a compromise that everyone can accept. The results show that the application of LSS approach with SSM effectively improves the supportive activities as well as the manufacturing processes.
Acknowledgements
The authors thank the editor and the referee of this paper who helped clarify and improve the presentation.