Management Assessment Tool of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma based on PNQ Model: A Brazilian Case Study

The competitiveness in the industrial environment has increased considerably and, as a direct consequence, the search for different techniques and management practices to achieve better performance in all processes have been a major concern for organizations interested in solidifying its global market presence. Companies are using models, philosophies and programs to improve their production processes, seeking to reduce wastage, time and increase profits. This paper aims to show the main results of an implementation of a tool developed to assess the integrated elements originated from Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, based on PNQ (Programa Nacional da Qualidade Brazilian National Quality Program). Thus, some specific objectives were outlined: i) to develop constructs and elements from theory that represents this integration about Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, based on PNQ Quality model; ii) to apply the instrument in one manufacturing organization in Brazil; iii) to briefly analyze and discuss the results. This is an applied and qualitative research, which used basic qualitative studies and descriptive techniques as research strategies. A 5-point Likert scale was used for the evaluation of the elements and constructs. The instrument was applied in one manufacturing company located in the southern region of Brazil. The application of the instrument showed that it could be useful in the management of elements and constructs of companies that have the Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma implemented. Among the 9 constructs, three of them need more attention: Strategy, Culture and Customer.