Lean six sigma in the public sector: overcoming persistent management challenges

Abstract

The implementation of Lean Six Sigma in the public sector has grown considerably in recent years and may be accentuated in times of global economic crisis. Even so, general aspects that can guide managers for its implementation in the public sector were not found in the related scientific literature. This paper proposes management guidelines for LSS implementation in public service organizations aiming to support the continuous improvement regarding their processes and results. The guidelines originated from LSS principles under management perspective and literature review on both LSS and public sector using the grounded theory method, being refined afterwards by experts in public management and LSS. This paper can encourage public managers to start a low-cost improvement process in the organizations and support the LSS continuity. Concerning the scientific contribution, this proposal provides a more comprehensive perspective on LSS implementation in the public sector raising persistent management challenges and being a starting point for new research on LSS guidelines directed to specific services within the public sector.

Keywords:

• guidelines
• implementation
• lean six sigma
• management
• public service

Additional information

Funding

This project is supported by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (PQ 312894/2017-1). The authors would like to thank CNPq for their support.

Notes on contributors

Fernando Juliani

Fernando Juliani is a Computer Systems Analyst at the Institute of Aeronautics and Space, Brazilian Air Force. He has a PhD and MS degree in Mechanical Engineering from São Paulo State University (UNESP). His research interests include Lean Six Sigma, Smart Government and Artificial Intelligence. He has published papers on Computer Solutions, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics and Operation Management.

Otávio José de Oliveira

Otávio José de Oliveira is a Civil Eng., MS and PhD in Engineering. He is an Associate Professor at São Paulo State University (UNESP). He is the coordinator of the Production Engineering Post Graduation Program at UNESP, Guaratinguetá campus. His line of research encompasses Quality and Environment Management, mainly ISO 9001, ISO 14001, Lean Six Sigma and Industry 4.0.