Lean and Six Sigma together can make businesses and organizations more efficient and productive. In most cases, those focusing on Lean and Six Sigma are looking at the bottom line and trying to find ways to save time and money while still creating the best product or service possible. We now understand that the practice of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) often results in better environmental performance, even when that isn’t the intended outcome of a project.

In this innovative podcast, Lean Six Sigma consultant Brion Hurley is interviewed by Luke Andersen from the radio show, Northwest Business. Brion has established a strong reputation on helping organizations achieve environmental sustainability and achieve success beyond growth or monetary savings.

Download the podcast here.

The post Podcast: The Impact of Lean Six Sigma on the Environment appeared first on 6sigma.

The following is an excerpt from his book:

A Lean Six Sigma approach works for almost any kind of problem, not just those within for-profit companies and organizations.

Did you know that nonprofit organizations and non governmental organizations (NGO) have documented the following successes using Lean and Six Sigma? 

• Toyota Production System Support Center helped decrease time to deliver food to Hurricane Sandy victims from 3 hours to 1.2 hours 
• World Vision International helped decrease costs for mosquito nets and office supplies in East Africa by $100,000 
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton helped reduce volunteer sign up times by 50% and reduced overtime by 65% 
• Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania helped reduce the cycle time of a donor reporting process by 70% 

Brion addresses so many important issues that plague our planet, but his positive approach focuses on solutions. For example, it is evident that our planet has environmental and social issues, but there are so many and how can we even start? Brion states the following:

• Pick a cause that resonates with you
• Many companies offer “paid” volunteer hours, so check with your employer
• If your company doesn’t offer “paid” volunteer hours, volunteer on your own time
• Volunteering for environmental and social causes will make an impact on future generations
• Many have found new careers with like-minded people, by volunteering for a cause that resonates with them
• The action of working toward a cause makes us happy

“Lean Six Sigma For Good” is a must-have for every generation, as this information is timeless. It is available in both Kindle and paperback formats. 

Brion Hurley is certified as a Master Black Belt and Lean Master, and has numerous sustainability certifications, including CISR Certified Practitioner. He owns Business Performance Improvement (BPI), a Lean Six Sigma consulting firm in Portland (Oregon) focused on sustainability. He currently teaches Six Sigma and Lean classes, working as a consultant for 6sigma.com and works in the Pacific Northwest (Portland, San Francisco, and Seattle), and facilitates lean events and kaizen workshops. Brion also volunteers his time with local nonprofits through Lean Portland.

The post New Book “Lean Six Sigma For Good” Shows Us the Art of Sustainability appeared first on 6sigma.