Future‐Proofing Six Sigma

Six Sigma started some three decades ago as a problem solving framework for quality improvement. It has since evolved, while being implemented in industry, into a management approach to performance excellence. Whether Six Sigma will continue to enjoy the attention it has been getting and keep embraced by practitioners depends on whether its implementation continues to be in line with new organizational needs in the twenty‐first century. This paper considers what it would take for Six Sigma to face the future world and analyzes from both strategic and operational directions a number of maneuvers necessary to sustain its relevance. Various inclusive and proactive features are explained for remaking of a Six Sigma that is to remain in demand for many years to come. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.