10 Best Lean Six Sigma Books to Read

Lean Six Sigma is an approach to achieving perfection in manufacturing. Six Sigma is statistical process control. It’s a data-based approach for eliminating defects from a process and there are lots of brands with books about Lean 6 Sigma belt training and its principles on the market, but we’ve gathered the top 10 best.

Many manufacturers use lean methods in conjunction with Six Sigma. Lean is focused on eliminating waste in processes. While Six Sigma focuses on reducing process variations and improving process control. Lean and Six Sigma combined can help manufacturers improve their quality and efficiency across all their operations. There is no shortage of material available to improve your Six Sigma skills, whether you are just starting to learn about Six Sigma or training to earn your black or green belt certification.

Lean 6 Sigma certification validates the level of your training and shows that you possess the necessary level of knowledge of the principles for the exam. Six Sigma uses martial art terms to describe two of the main certification levels: Six Sigma Green Belt, and Six Sigma Black Belt. You can find dozens of books to help you learn Six Sigma techniques, understand them in depth and prepare for the certification test. These books will serve as a reference guide and complement your Six Sigma training.

1-. Why They Fail and The Simple Key to Success

By Kevin Clay

In this book, you will learn the reason why 90% of Continuous Improvement Efforts (like Lean and Six Sigma) either fail or quit within 18 months. I will show you how companies fail to build a sustainable effort and what the ensuing failure looks like.  Then I will show you the Simple Key to Success. If you want to build a sustainable continuous improvement culture in your organization, read this book!

What’s Inside?

  • Statistics on Failed Continuous Improvement Efforts
  • How they have failed: 6 real-world scenarios from multi-million dollar companies that led to failure 
  • Why they failed to build a sustainable continuous improvement effort: the five (5) top reasons companies fail 
  • How Not to Fail: The 7 Steps to Build the Foundation for a sustainable continuous improvement culture
  • Showcase the most important and simple key to success
  • You will learn how to capture the Voice of the Organization (not just the Leaders of the Organization)

2. The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Handbook

By T.M. Kubiak and Donald Benbow

The certified Six Sigma Black Belt Handbook provides a thorough study guide for those preparing to take the certification exam and is also a valuable reference for Six Sigma practitioners. The handbook was recently updated by the American Society for Quality with new exercises and tables, as well as content that clarifies more difficult concepts.

What is a lean brand?
What is a lean brand?

3. The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook

By Michael L. Jones & John Maxey

Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook brand, while compact, is a comprehensive resource for Lean and Six Sigma concepts and tools. Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook contains summaries and illustrations of the 70 most essential tools in Lean Six Sigma. The book organizes tools according to their purpose and uses, with expert advice about how to choose the best tool for each situation.

4. Six Sigma Black Belt Statistics

By Matthew A. Barsalou

This book is the perfect companion for Six Sigma black belts who need a quick reference to a comprehensive list of statistical methods. The methods are organized by the DMAIC stages in which they are usually used. This allows users to find the information quickly.

5. How to Maximize Your Change and Improvement Activities

By Peter S. Pande Robert P. Neuman and Roland Cavanagh

The Six Sigma Way was published in 2000 and is considered one of six sigma’s definitive books. It was also the first book to explain its benefits. The book was updated to reflect current Six Sigma practices, lessons learned, and myths. Visit their case studies and practical implementation guides to learn from practitioners.

6. The Six Sigma Way Team Fieldbook: an Implementation Guide for Process Improvement Teams

By Peter S. Pande

Six Sigma Way Team Fieldbook serves as a practical companion for Six Sigma Way. This book is a useful reference for both team members and leaders. Learn how to identify improvements that are needed in products, processes, and services by reading this book. This book contains worksheets, checklists, and tips that can be used to collect data for improvement.

7. Six-Sigma: A Complete Guide Step-by-Step: A Complete Reference & Training Guide for White Belts and Yellow Belts

By Craig Joseph Setter and The Council for Six Sigma Certification

This comprehensive guide by The Council for Six Sigma Certification is geared towards beginners or advanced Six Sigma learners, anyone training for a Six Sigma Certification, and companies that want to train their staff. This book introduces Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma across a variety of industry brands.

8. What is Lean Six Sigma?

By Michael L. George & David Rowlands

Lean Six Sigma: This book provides a general overview of Lean 6 Sigma and how it can improve your workplace with its principles. It will also help you achieve your goals and serve your customers better. This book explains the “four key” concepts of Lean Six Sigma: speed and quality, process improvements, working together to maximize gain, and data-based decision-making.

9. The goal: a process of continuous improvement

By Eliyahu M. Goldratt

The goal should be read by anyone who is interested in production systems. The book is a fast-paced thriller novel that explains the importance of setting goals to set organizations on the path to continuous improvement. The goal tells the story of an ambitious plant manager with 90 days to prevent his plant’s closure. He must change his way of thinking to be successful.

10. The Six Sigma Handbook – A Complete Guide for Managers of All Levels

By Thomas Pyzdek & Paul A. Keller

Six Sigma Handbook by Thomas Pyzdek & Paul A. Keller is designed for managers and quality professionals looking for an introduction to Six Sigma statistics and tools. The book gives a brief overview of Six Sigma management and a guide to common problem-solving tools and techniques.

What are the principles of lean 6 sigma?
What are the principles of lean 6 sigma?

Conclusion

Lean Six Sigma is a methodology that consists of a collection of tools and techniques. It’s used by many organizations to improve production processes, eliminate defects, and ensure the highest quality. The Lean Six Sigma Certification brand on your resume will demonstrate your commitment to developing your analytical and business skills. This will enhance the growth of your company.

Businesses around the world recognize Six Sigma certifications as proof of an individual’s ability to improve business goals, increase profitability, and enhance overall efficiency.

Share your favorite Lean Six Sigma book in the comments below!