A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

Must have for any Green, Black or Master Black Belt, 15 Nov 2006
Me and this book have become inseparable. I refer to it when ever I need a well written no-nonsense explanation of a tool.
All of our Black Belts have it as the number one point of reference.

Thanks Quentin, you have taken the black art out of Six Sigma with your excellent book.


Essential for Black and Green Belts., 16 Feb 2006
I originally had a copy of this book (naughty I know) but I found it so useful and invaluable that I had to buy a proper copy. I am a certified Black Belt and I am not exaggerating when I say that I refer to this book almost every day. I referred to it extensively for my very first project and it made me think about areas that I had not even covered in my training such as always doing a Voice of the Customer (VOC) and summarising sections with a Problem Definition Sheet (really kept me on track).

The book links in with Minitab very well and provides you with the correct route for commonly used tools which is very useful if you have not had formal Minitab training. If you ever go on Minitab training you will be amazed at how many people have this book open in front of them!

I work in a Service (Transactional) based industry (major mobile telecoms provider) and this book is perfect for transactional projects and point of view.

The authors website (listed in the book) is also excellent and links in with the book with data files, project charter template etc. You can also download a customised Minitab profile giving easy access to the most commonly used Minitab tools.

The book may seem expensive but I can assure you that it is worth every single penny! You will never regret buying this book.

Superb reference book!, 07 Jul 2005
If, like me, you are fairly new to Six Sigma, then you will appreciate this handy reference guide. I got back from the training course all fired up, and fumbled my way round a bit trying to remebered how to apply what I had learnt when. Then I came across this book, and now I wouldn't be without it. It follows the DMAIC approach in simple steps and guides you through the process. Having the Minitab commands and an explanation of how to interpret the charts and graphs produced in Minitab is also very, very helpful.

At last - a Six Sigma/MINITAB guide of real value!, 16 Jul 2004
Having completed Black Belt training, I came across this book and now wish I'd found it before my training! It's clear flow through DMAIC, with detailed instructions for using MINITAB where necessary (with screen shots) makes it an excellent companion for those that have been trained, and now need to DO something with the tools they've learnt.
The down to earth language and approach is also a breath of fresh air in the jargon laden Six Sigma world.
I originally had reservations on the price in relation to other "pocket" guides available, but this book contains a substantial amount of useful information, and having read it, I'd recommend it to anyone involved in Six Sigma as being worth every penny.

Living with the Toolbox Guide for Six Sigma and Minitab, 03 Jun 2004
For a start, let me get an irritant out of the way. Most reference books that I have seen on the subject will give you a hernia if you try to carry them about! The author has done a good job here. Not only is A5 a great size for daily use, but the thoughtful use of plasticised covers will ensure a durable product.
Now to the content. Many Belts are confused post training. They come to Six Sigma poorly equipped to deal with complex processes in a structured and rigorous manner. The examples in the training all seem to work out so well and easily, but confusion is rampant in real life, as reality is seldom as well ordered as in the training domain. Therefore a Belt can really find value in this book, as it clearly charts a course through the improvement project, and aligns the tools and methods with the steps in question.
As a Master Black Belt, I use this book in all my training and coaching of Black Belts. It is also a standard reference hand out to candidate Black Belts.

Bravo...another blow to variation.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

Must have for any Green, Black or Master Black Belt, 15 Nov 2006
Me and this book have become inseparable. I refer to it when ever I need a well written no-nonsense explanation of a tool.
All of our Black Belts have it as the number one point of reference.

Thanks Quentin, you have taken the black art out of Six Sigma with your excellent book.


Essential for Black and Green Belts., 16 Feb 2006
I originally had a copy of this book (naughty I know) but I found it so useful and invaluable that I had to buy a proper copy. I am a certified Black Belt and I am not exaggerating when I say that I refer to this book almost every day. I referred to it extensively for my very first project and it made me think about areas that I had not even covered in my training such as always doing a Voice of the Customer (VOC) and summarising sections with a Problem Definition Sheet (really kept me on track).

The book links in with Minitab very well and provides you with the correct route for commonly used tools which is very useful if you have not had formal Minitab training. If you ever go on Minitab training you will be amazed at how many people have this book open in front of them!

I work in a Service (Transactional) based industry (major mobile telecoms provider) and this book is perfect for transactional projects and point of view.

The authors website (listed in the book) is also excellent and links in with the book with data files, project charter template etc. You can also download a customised Minitab profile giving easy access to the most commonly used Minitab tools.

The book may seem expensive but I can assure you that it is worth every single penny! You will never regret buying this book.

Superb reference book!, 07 Jul 2005
If, like me, you are fairly new to Six Sigma, then you will appreciate this handy reference guide. I got back from the training course all fired up, and fumbled my way round a bit trying to remebered how to apply what I had learnt when. Then I came across this book, and now I wouldn't be without it. It follows the DMAIC approach in simple steps and guides you through the process. Having the Minitab commands and an explanation of how to interpret the charts and graphs produced in Minitab is also very, very helpful.

At last - a Six Sigma/MINITAB guide of real value!, 16 Jul 2004
Having completed Black Belt training, I came across this book and now wish I'd found it before my training! It's clear flow through DMAIC, with detailed instructions for using MINITAB where necessary (with screen shots) makes it an excellent companion for those that have been trained, and now need to DO something with the tools they've learnt.
The down to earth language and approach is also a breath of fresh air in the jargon laden Six Sigma world.
I originally had reservations on the price in relation to other "pocket" guides available, but this book contains a substantial amount of useful information, and having read it, I'd recommend it to anyone involved in Six Sigma as being worth every penny.

Living with the Toolbox Guide for Six Sigma and Minitab, 03 Jun 2004
For a start, let me get an irritant out of the way. Most reference books that I have seen on the subject will give you a hernia if you try to carry them about! The author has done a good job here. Not only is A5 a great size for daily use, but the thoughtful use of plasticised covers will ensure a durable product.
Now to the content. Many Belts are confused post training. They come to Six Sigma poorly equipped to deal with complex processes in a structured and rigorous manner. The examples in the training all seem to work out so well and easily, but confusion is rampant in real life, as reality is seldom as well ordered as in the training domain. Therefore a Belt can really find value in this book, as it clearly charts a course through the improvement project, and aligns the tools and methods with the steps in question.
As a Master Black Belt, I use this book in all my training and coaching of Black Belts. It is also a standard reference hand out to candidate Black Belts.

Bravo...another blow to variation.

Easy read and a good introduction to LSS, 31 Jul 2008
My qualifications for buying this book were:

I knew nothing about Lean
I knew nothing about Six Sigma
I was head of CMMI implementation for my dept and another neighbouring dept was taking Lean Six Sigma

So I bought the book and read it.

I now know enough about Lean Six Sigma to (a) tell the difference between Lean and Six Sigma (b) incorporate its requirements into my implementation plans (c) give a presentation to my dept on what the other department is doing and (d) enough to discuss LSS over lunch (pass an interview?) with LSS experts.

For me, the 17 Eur I paid at the airport and the few hours it took to read and make some notes were time and money well spent. The book is not enough to implement six sigma yourself, for that you need to spend a lot more but it is perfect for familiarising the novice. It is also, thank god, readable. Examples abound in the book, they're all a `bit American' but don't worry about that, the substance was spot on for me.


Now what? What can I do with it?, 09 Dec 2007
This book in nothing more than a set of articles about Lean Six Sigma implementation cases. It does not tell you much on how to implement it, how to approach real life problems, what tools to use in different situations. This is only a soft read to get acquainted with "Lean Six Sigma". If you are looking for something that can really help you applying these principles on your company/work choose another title for you'll consider this one useless.

Concise but a light read, 17 Aug 2007
Not a great deal of substance but it does give a useful perspective on combining Lean process thinking with Six Sigma's emphasis on quality.

An accelerated explanation of how to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost , 15 May 2007

It seems eminently appropriate that a book which explains what Lean Six Sigma is (and isn't) should exemplify the same principles it addresses: It delights its reader with the speed by which its material is covered and with the quality of that material, it offers immediate help with mastering whatever the given process (or processes) may be, its authors work effectively with their reader to achieve the desired objectives within that reader's organization, and they prepare their reader to make better decisions, based on verifiable data.

Many people who consider purchasing it may be deterred by terms such Six Sigma and Lean which tend to be associated only with immensely large and complicated organizations such as GE and Motorola. In fact, authors Michael L. George, David Rowlands, and Bill Kastle include a number of mini-case studies throughout their narrative that suggest how decision-makers in almost any organization (regardless of size or nature) can apply Lean Six Sigma to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost if (huge "if") there are leadership at the top of the given organization, buy-in and sustained commitment at all levels and in all areas, sufficient resources, and accurate and consistent performance measurement.

For me, some of the most valuable material is provided in Chapter 8, "Making Improvements That Last." After explaining the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) process, the authors make skillful use of various "Figures" that serve two separate but related purposes: they highlight key points, and, they facilitate, indeed expedite frequent review of those points later. For example, Figure 8.1: Sample Project Charter that demonstrates how to capture the essence of a Lean Six Sigma project. It describes what the team should accomplish, who will work on the project (and in what roles), timelines and other key information. Then with Figure 8.3: Value Stream Map, the authors indicate with the example provided how the value stream map, based on an actual process, captures the main sequence of activities in the boxes across the top line. If executed with rigor and discipline, the DMAIC process offers a framework for effective collaboration that will reveal real solutions to root problems.

Those who share my high regard for this book are urged to check out James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones's Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation and their more recent book, Lean Solutions: How Companies and Customers Can Create Value and Wealth Together. Also, Michael George's Lean Six Sigma for Service: How to Use Lean Speed and Six Sigma Quality to Improve Services and Transactions, The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook: A Quick Reference Guide to 100 Tools for Improving Quality and Speed (with John Maxey and David T. Rowlands) and Fast Innovation: Achieving Superior Differentiation, Speed to Market, and Increased Profitability (with James Works, and Kimberly Watson-Hemphill).

Packed with Knowledge !, 18 Mar 2005
Six Sigma books often couch their wisdom in acronyms or jargon, or they offer vague, unfulfilling anecdotal narratives. This book is different. As trim, focused and efficient as if a Six Sigma team had designed it, it gets the job done. Its mission is simple: explain the basic structure of Lean Six Sigma initiatives to readers who are likely to become involved in one. While select case studies are judiciously sprinkled throughout, this is a meat-and-potatoes book that tells you what you need to know in clear, straightforward prose. Although the authors - Mike George, Dave Rowlands and Bill Kastle - humbly issue the caveat that this is not intended to be a comprehensive reference, its terse yet relevant style will probably make it one of those dog-eared volumes that barely gets back to the HR bookshelf before it's checked out again. Because of its plainspoken functionality, we recommend this manual strongly to anyone whose future may involve Lean Six Sigma.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

Must have for any Green, Black or Master Black Belt, 15 Nov 2006
Me and this book have become inseparable. I refer to it when ever I need a well written no-nonsense explanation of a tool.
All of our Black Belts have it as the number one point of reference.

Thanks Quentin, you have taken the black art out of Six Sigma with your excellent book.


Essential for Black and Green Belts., 16 Feb 2006
I originally had a copy of this book (naughty I know) but I found it so useful and invaluable that I had to buy a proper copy. I am a certified Black Belt and I am not exaggerating when I say that I refer to this book almost every day. I referred to it extensively for my very first project and it made me think about areas that I had not even covered in my training such as always doing a Voice of the Customer (VOC) and summarising sections with a Problem Definition Sheet (really kept me on track).

The book links in with Minitab very well and provides you with the correct route for commonly used tools which is very useful if you have not had formal Minitab training. If you ever go on Minitab training you will be amazed at how many people have this book open in front of them!

I work in a Service (Transactional) based industry (major mobile telecoms provider) and this book is perfect for transactional projects and point of view.

The authors website (listed in the book) is also excellent and links in with the book with data files, project charter template etc. You can also download a customised Minitab profile giving easy access to the most commonly used Minitab tools.

The book may seem expensive but I can assure you that it is worth every single penny! You will never regret buying this book.

Superb reference book!, 07 Jul 2005
If, like me, you are fairly new to Six Sigma, then you will appreciate this handy reference guide. I got back from the training course all fired up, and fumbled my way round a bit trying to remebered how to apply what I had learnt when. Then I came across this book, and now I wouldn't be without it. It follows the DMAIC approach in simple steps and guides you through the process. Having the Minitab commands and an explanation of how to interpret the charts and graphs produced in Minitab is also very, very helpful.

At last - a Six Sigma/MINITAB guide of real value!, 16 Jul 2004
Having completed Black Belt training, I came across this book and now wish I'd found it before my training! It's clear flow through DMAIC, with detailed instructions for using MINITAB where necessary (with screen shots) makes it an excellent companion for those that have been trained, and now need to DO something with the tools they've learnt.
The down to earth language and approach is also a breath of fresh air in the jargon laden Six Sigma world.
I originally had reservations on the price in relation to other "pocket" guides available, but this book contains a substantial amount of useful information, and having read it, I'd recommend it to anyone involved in Six Sigma as being worth every penny.

Living with the Toolbox Guide for Six Sigma and Minitab, 03 Jun 2004
For a start, let me get an irritant out of the way. Most reference books that I have seen on the subject will give you a hernia if you try to carry them about! The author has done a good job here. Not only is A5 a great size for daily use, but the thoughtful use of plasticised covers will ensure a durable product.
Now to the content. Many Belts are confused post training. They come to Six Sigma poorly equipped to deal with complex processes in a structured and rigorous manner. The examples in the training all seem to work out so well and easily, but confusion is rampant in real life, as reality is seldom as well ordered as in the training domain. Therefore a Belt can really find value in this book, as it clearly charts a course through the improvement project, and aligns the tools and methods with the steps in question.
As a Master Black Belt, I use this book in all my training and coaching of Black Belts. It is also a standard reference hand out to candidate Black Belts.

Bravo...another blow to variation.

Easy read and a good introduction to LSS, 31 Jul 2008
My qualifications for buying this book were:

I knew nothing about Lean
I knew nothing about Six Sigma
I was head of CMMI implementation for my dept and another neighbouring dept was taking Lean Six Sigma

So I bought the book and read it.

I now know enough about Lean Six Sigma to (a) tell the difference between Lean and Six Sigma (b) incorporate its requirements into my implementation plans (c) give a presentation to my dept on what the other department is doing and (d) enough to discuss LSS over lunch (pass an interview?) with LSS experts.

For me, the 17 Eur I paid at the airport and the few hours it took to read and make some notes were time and money well spent. The book is not enough to implement six sigma yourself, for that you need to spend a lot more but it is perfect for familiarising the novice. It is also, thank god, readable. Examples abound in the book, they're all a `bit American' but don't worry about that, the substance was spot on for me.


Now what? What can I do with it?, 09 Dec 2007
This book in nothing more than a set of articles about Lean Six Sigma implementation cases. It does not tell you much on how to implement it, how to approach real life problems, what tools to use in different situations. This is only a soft read to get acquainted with "Lean Six Sigma". If you are looking for something that can really help you applying these principles on your company/work choose another title for you'll consider this one useless.

Concise but a light read, 17 Aug 2007
Not a great deal of substance but it does give a useful perspective on combining Lean process thinking with Six Sigma's emphasis on quality.

An accelerated explanation of how to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost , 15 May 2007

It seems eminently appropriate that a book which explains what Lean Six Sigma is (and isn't) should exemplify the same principles it addresses: It delights its reader with the speed by which its material is covered and with the quality of that material, it offers immediate help with mastering whatever the given process (or processes) may be, its authors work effectively with their reader to achieve the desired objectives within that reader's organization, and they prepare their reader to make better decisions, based on verifiable data.

Many people who consider purchasing it may be deterred by terms such Six Sigma and Lean which tend to be associated only with immensely large and complicated organizations such as GE and Motorola. In fact, authors Michael L. George, David Rowlands, and Bill Kastle include a number of mini-case studies throughout their narrative that suggest how decision-makers in almost any organization (regardless of size or nature) can apply Lean Six Sigma to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost if (huge "if") there are leadership at the top of the given organization, buy-in and sustained commitment at all levels and in all areas, sufficient resources, and accurate and consistent performance measurement.

For me, some of the most valuable material is provided in Chapter 8, "Making Improvements That Last." After explaining the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) process, the authors make skillful use of various "Figures" that serve two separate but related purposes: they highlight key points, and, they facilitate, indeed expedite frequent review of those points later. For example, Figure 8.1: Sample Project Charter that demonstrates how to capture the essence of a Lean Six Sigma project. It describes what the team should accomplish, who will work on the project (and in what roles), timelines and other key information. Then with Figure 8.3: Value Stream Map, the authors indicate with the example provided how the value stream map, based on an actual process, captures the main sequence of activities in the boxes across the top line. If executed with rigor and discipline, the DMAIC process offers a framework for effective collaboration that will reveal real solutions to root problems.

Those who share my high regard for this book are urged to check out James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones's Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation and their more recent book, Lean Solutions: How Companies and Customers Can Create Value and Wealth Together. Also, Michael George's Lean Six Sigma for Service: How to Use Lean Speed and Six Sigma Quality to Improve Services and Transactions, The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook: A Quick Reference Guide to 100 Tools for Improving Quality and Speed (with John Maxey and David T. Rowlands) and Fast Innovation: Achieving Superior Differentiation, Speed to Market, and Increased Profitability (with James Works, and Kimberly Watson-Hemphill).

Packed with Knowledge !, 18 Mar 2005
Six Sigma books often couch their wisdom in acronyms or jargon, or they offer vague, unfulfilling anecdotal narratives. This book is different. As trim, focused and efficient as if a Six Sigma team had designed it, it gets the job done. Its mission is simple: explain the basic structure of Lean Six Sigma initiatives to readers who are likely to become involved in one. While select case studies are judiciously sprinkled throughout, this is a meat-and-potatoes book that tells you what you need to know in clear, straightforward prose. Although the authors - Mike George, Dave Rowlands and Bill Kastle - humbly issue the caveat that this is not intended to be a comprehensive reference, its terse yet relevant style will probably make it one of those dog-eared volumes that barely gets back to the HR bookshelf before it's checked out again. Because of its plainspoken functionality, we recommend this manual strongly to anyone whose future may involve Lean Six Sigma.

The bible of improvement., 30 May 2006
Buy this first.
A remarkably readable book.

This is the one.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

Must have for any Green, Black or Master Black Belt, 15 Nov 2006
Me and this book have become inseparable. I refer to it when ever I need a well written no-nonsense explanation of a tool.
All of our Black Belts have it as the number one point of reference.

Thanks Quentin, you have taken the black art out of Six Sigma with your excellent book.


Essential for Black and Green Belts., 16 Feb 2006
I originally had a copy of this book (naughty I know) but I found it so useful and invaluable that I had to buy a proper copy. I am a certified Black Belt and I am not exaggerating when I say that I refer to this book almost every day. I referred to it extensively for my very first project and it made me think about areas that I had not even covered in my training such as always doing a Voice of the Customer (VOC) and summarising sections with a Problem Definition Sheet (really kept me on track).

The book links in with Minitab very well and provides you with the correct route for commonly used tools which is very useful if you have not had formal Minitab training. If you ever go on Minitab training you will be amazed at how many people have this book open in front of them!

I work in a Service (Transactional) based industry (major mobile telecoms provider) and this book is perfect for transactional projects and point of view.

The authors website (listed in the book) is also excellent and links in with the book with data files, project charter template etc. You can also download a customised Minitab profile giving easy access to the most commonly used Minitab tools.

The book may seem expensive but I can assure you that it is worth every single penny! You will never regret buying this book.

Superb reference book!, 07 Jul 2005
If, like me, you are fairly new to Six Sigma, then you will appreciate this handy reference guide. I got back from the training course all fired up, and fumbled my way round a bit trying to remebered how to apply what I had learnt when. Then I came across this book, and now I wouldn't be without it. It follows the DMAIC approach in simple steps and guides you through the process. Having the Minitab commands and an explanation of how to interpret the charts and graphs produced in Minitab is also very, very helpful.

At last - a Six Sigma/MINITAB guide of real value!, 16 Jul 2004
Having completed Black Belt training, I came across this book and now wish I'd found it before my training! It's clear flow through DMAIC, with detailed instructions for using MINITAB where necessary (with screen shots) makes it an excellent companion for those that have been trained, and now need to DO something with the tools they've learnt.
The down to earth language and approach is also a breath of fresh air in the jargon laden Six Sigma world.
I originally had reservations on the price in relation to other "pocket" guides available, but this book contains a substantial amount of useful information, and having read it, I'd recommend it to anyone involved in Six Sigma as being worth every penny.

Living with the Toolbox Guide for Six Sigma and Minitab, 03 Jun 2004
For a start, let me get an irritant out of the way. Most reference books that I have seen on the subject will give you a hernia if you try to carry them about! The author has done a good job here. Not only is A5 a great size for daily use, but the thoughtful use of plasticised covers will ensure a durable product.
Now to the content. Many Belts are confused post training. They come to Six Sigma poorly equipped to deal with complex processes in a structured and rigorous manner. The examples in the training all seem to work out so well and easily, but confusion is rampant in real life, as reality is seldom as well ordered as in the training domain. Therefore a Belt can really find value in this book, as it clearly charts a course through the improvement project, and aligns the tools and methods with the steps in question.
As a Master Black Belt, I use this book in all my training and coaching of Black Belts. It is also a standard reference hand out to candidate Black Belts.

Bravo...another blow to variation.

Easy read and a good introduction to LSS, 31 Jul 2008
My qualifications for buying this book were:

I knew nothing about Lean
I knew nothing about Six Sigma
I was head of CMMI implementation for my dept and another neighbouring dept was taking Lean Six Sigma

So I bought the book and read it.

I now know enough about Lean Six Sigma to (a) tell the difference between Lean and Six Sigma (b) incorporate its requirements into my implementation plans (c) give a presentation to my dept on what the other department is doing and (d) enough to discuss LSS over lunch (pass an interview?) with LSS experts.

For me, the 17 Eur I paid at the airport and the few hours it took to read and make some notes were time and money well spent. The book is not enough to implement six sigma yourself, for that you need to spend a lot more but it is perfect for familiarising the novice. It is also, thank god, readable. Examples abound in the book, they're all a `bit American' but don't worry about that, the substance was spot on for me.


Now what? What can I do with it?, 09 Dec 2007
This book in nothing more than a set of articles about Lean Six Sigma implementation cases. It does not tell you much on how to implement it, how to approach real life problems, what tools to use in different situations. This is only a soft read to get acquainted with "Lean Six Sigma". If you are looking for something that can really help you applying these principles on your company/work choose another title for you'll consider this one useless.

Concise but a light read, 17 Aug 2007
Not a great deal of substance but it does give a useful perspective on combining Lean process thinking with Six Sigma's emphasis on quality.

An accelerated explanation of how to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost , 15 May 2007

It seems eminently appropriate that a book which explains what Lean Six Sigma is (and isn't) should exemplify the same principles it addresses: It delights its reader with the speed by which its material is covered and with the quality of that material, it offers immediate help with mastering whatever the given process (or processes) may be, its authors work effectively with their reader to achieve the desired objectives within that reader's organization, and they prepare their reader to make better decisions, based on verifiable data.

Many people who consider purchasing it may be deterred by terms such Six Sigma and Lean which tend to be associated only with immensely large and complicated organizations such as GE and Motorola. In fact, authors Michael L. George, David Rowlands, and Bill Kastle include a number of mini-case studies throughout their narrative that suggest how decision-makers in almost any organization (regardless of size or nature) can apply Lean Six Sigma to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost if (huge "if") there are leadership at the top of the given organization, buy-in and sustained commitment at all levels and in all areas, sufficient resources, and accurate and consistent performance measurement.

For me, some of the most valuable material is provided in Chapter 8, "Making Improvements That Last." After explaining the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) process, the authors make skillful use of various "Figures" that serve two separate but related purposes: they highlight key points, and, they facilitate, indeed expedite frequent review of those points later. For example, Figure 8.1: Sample Project Charter that demonstrates how to capture the essence of a Lean Six Sigma project. It describes what the team should accomplish, who will work on the project (and in what roles), timelines and other key information. Then with Figure 8.3: Value Stream Map, the authors indicate with the example provided how the value stream map, based on an actual process, captures the main sequence of activities in the boxes across the top line. If executed with rigor and discipline, the DMAIC process offers a framework for effective collaboration that will reveal real solutions to root problems.

Those who share my high regard for this book are urged to check out James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones's Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation and their more recent book, Lean Solutions: How Companies and Customers Can Create Value and Wealth Together. Also, Michael George's Lean Six Sigma for Service: How to Use Lean Speed and Six Sigma Quality to Improve Services and Transactions, The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook: A Quick Reference Guide to 100 Tools for Improving Quality and Speed (with John Maxey and David T. Rowlands) and Fast Innovation: Achieving Superior Differentiation, Speed to Market, and Increased Profitability (with James Works, and Kimberly Watson-Hemphill).

Packed with Knowledge !, 18 Mar 2005
Six Sigma books often couch their wisdom in acronyms or jargon, or they offer vague, unfulfilling anecdotal narratives. This book is different. As trim, focused and efficient as if a Six Sigma team had designed it, it gets the job done. Its mission is simple: explain the basic structure of Lean Six Sigma initiatives to readers who are likely to become involved in one. While select case studies are judiciously sprinkled throughout, this is a meat-and-potatoes book that tells you what you need to know in clear, straightforward prose. Although the authors - Mike George, Dave Rowlands and Bill Kastle - humbly issue the caveat that this is not intended to be a comprehensive reference, its terse yet relevant style will probably make it one of those dog-eared volumes that barely gets back to the HR bookshelf before it's checked out again. Because of its plainspoken functionality, we recommend this manual strongly to anyone whose future may involve Lean Six Sigma.

The bible of improvement., 30 May 2006
Buy this first.
A remarkably readable book.

This is the one.

Does What It Says on The Tin, 14 May 2003
I like this book a lot. Some Six Sigma books are strong on history, while others contain lots of theory. Six sigma implementation is hard on the people caught up in the change process. This concise (lean) book provides background information and questions/answers for those people. But it !

Pull your company up by its boot straps!, 16 Mar 2002
A fantastic quick overview of the concepts and practice of Six Sigma, this took me 90 minutes to read and opened up a whole new world. Operating at six sigma (a statistical term meaning 100%) will have you running your business with zero customer complaints, and continually on the watch for process and quality improvement. A rigorous team approach to identifying and rectifying both large and small causes of less-than-perfect output, the Six Sigma project will give you lots of fun and challenge you as far as you can go... Rich with practical examples of real impact in some of today's largest organizations. There is plenty of further reading to follow on from this clear and simple introduction.

A workbook for Lean Six Sigma implementers, 22 Sep 2008
This is a fantastic workbook, which enables one to implement Lean Six Sigma for improving any service/transactional process.
Following the DMAIC structure i was able to sucessfully make significant improvements in process lead time.
A definte for any new starter.

Nearly 100 Tools For Improving, 26 Mar 2008
A really nice compact book with an open and easy style for quick reference on the key tools that help with Lean Six Sigma problem solving.

Lots of pictures and diagrams supporting explainations.

I would be happy recommend this to add to a belt's library as tool reference book in support training in a deployment.

Superb Toolbook for Reference!!, 31 May 2006
It is a great guide for Six Sigma, I bought it because I took quite a lot of lectures on different Six Sigma topics at University, but now that I'm working I needed to refresh my mind and this book has proven to be very handy in terms of reference. Now, half of my time is destined to Six Sigma Projects and this toolbook has helped me to keep the Six Sigma Structure when doing a project, as well as referring to different statistical tools which I might have forgotten. I would highly recommend this book if you have already a background knowledge of Six Sigma, but if you are just starting with this methodology I would advice to look for more in-deep books.

Definitive pocket guide, 22 Feb 2006
This is a small, but very handy reference that supports the other Lean Six Sigma (LSS) books from the George Group. It contains virtually all of the detail needed by a LSS practitioner (for Black Belts & Green Belts), but keeps an easy to digest style.

It scores over the other pocket guides on the market (there are many) because it is a 'proper' book (not a wire bound pad) and has an easy to read text size. The theory is filled out with simple examples.

It also maintains the balance between Lean and Six Sigma tools and provides the detail needed for both.

Good overview of implementing lean sigma in services, 24 Feb 2007
Lean Six Sigma for Service provides an overview of how to implement lean and six sigma projects in service organisations. The book is clearly written and includes loads of case studies and covers issues such as the challenges faced in implementation; setting up the project; how your project teams should work; the importance of leadership commitment; and so on. It gives a high level overview of the challenges and requirements for success. For a book with "six sigma" in the title there is very little statistical detail. This makes is suitable for the novice, though a weakness for me is the lack detail of the tools and how to use them. You will need other books for that. Interestingly, most of the case studies emphasise the importance of using lean tools when getting started. Most of the successes seem to stem from process mapping, establishing flow, cutting down on WIP etc. There are few sigma based case studies. I guess that shows the importance of using lean to understand your processes, get them under control and standardise them, before you can use sigma processes to cut variation. Overall a good book. A little over long perhaps but excellent on the project management of lean and sigma.

So so, 09 Oct 2007
The lack of structure is definately a problem, especially if this was your first exposure to Six Sigma. I bought it as a supporting reference manaual to some materials I had from a structured inhouse training course. As a supporting guide to other reference materials it does have some use.

OK, 24 Aug 2006
But no real structure to the book (not based upon DMAIC), and over simplistic sometimes, so you're not sure where the tools fit in sometimes.

Must have for any Green, Black or Master Black Belt, 15 Nov 2006
Me and this book have become inseparable. I refer to it when ever I need a well written no-nonsense explanation of a tool.
All of our Black Belts have it as the number one point of reference.

Thanks Quentin, you have taken the black art out of Six Sigma with your excellent book.


Essential for Black and Green Belts., 16 Feb 2006
I originally had a copy of this book (naughty I know) but I found it so useful and invaluable that I had to buy a proper copy. I am a certified Black Belt and I am not exaggerating when I say that I refer to this book almost every day. I referred to it extensively for my very first project and it made me think about areas that I had not even covered in my training such as always doing a Voice of the Customer (VOC) and summarising sections with a Problem Definition Sheet (really kept me on track).

The book links in with Minitab very well and provides you with the correct route for commonly used tools which is very useful if you have not had formal Minitab training. If you ever go on Minitab training you will be amazed at how many people have this book open in front of them!

I work in a Service (Transactional) based industry (major mobile telecoms provider) and this book is perfect for transactional projects and point of view.

The authors website (listed in the book) is also excellent and links in with the book with data files, project charter template etc. You can also download a customised Minitab profile giving easy access to the most commonly used Minitab tools.

The book may seem expensive but I can assure you that it is worth every single penny! You will never regret buying this book.

Superb reference book!, 07 Jul 2005
If, like me, you are fairly new to Six Sigma, then you will appreciate this handy reference guide. I got back from the training course all fired up, and fumbled my way round a bit trying to remebered how to apply what I had learnt when. Then I came across this book, and now I wouldn't be without it. It follows the DMAIC approach in simple steps and guides you through the process. Having the Minitab commands and an explanation of how to interpret the charts and graphs produced in Minitab is also very, very helpful.

At last - a Six Sigma/MINITAB guide of real value!, 16 Jul 2004
Having completed Black Belt training, I came across this book and now wish I'd found it before my training! It's clear flow through DMAIC, with detailed instructions for using MINITAB where necessary (with screen shots) makes it an excellent companion for those that have been trained, and now need to DO something with the tools they've learnt.
The down to earth language and approach is also a breath of fresh air in the jargon laden Six Sigma world.
I originally had reservations on the price in relation to other "pocket" guides available, but this book contains a substantial amount of useful information, and having read it, I'd recommend it to anyone involved in Six Sigma as being worth every penny.

Living with the Toolbox Guide for Six Sigma and Minitab, 03 Jun 2004
For a start, let me get an irritant out of the way. Most reference books that I have seen on the subject will give you a hernia if you try to carry them about! The author has done a good job here. Not only is A5 a great size for daily use, but the thoughtful use of plasticised covers will ensure a durable product.
Now to the content. Many Belts are confused post training. They come to Six Sigma poorly equipped to deal with complex processes in a structured and rigorous manner. The examples in the training all seem to work out so well and easily, but confusion is rampant in real life, as reality is seldom as well ordered as in the training domain. Therefore a Belt can really find value in this book, as it clearly charts a course through the improvement project, and aligns the tools and methods with the steps in question.
As a Master Black Belt, I use this book in all my training and coaching of Black Belts. It is also a standard reference hand out to candidate Black Belts.

Bravo...another blow to variation.

Easy read and a good introduction to LSS, 31 Jul 2008
My qualifications for buying this book were:

I knew nothing about Lean
I knew nothing about Six Sigma
I was head of CMMI implementation for my dept and another neighbouring dept was taking Lean Six Sigma

So I bought the book and read it.

I now know enough about Lean Six Sigma to (a) tell the difference between Lean and Six Sigma (b) incorporate its requirements into my implementation plans (c) give a presentation to my dept on what the other department is doing and (d) enough to discuss LSS over lunch (pass an interview?) with LSS experts.

For me, the 17 Eur I paid at the airport and the few hours it took to read and make some notes were time and money well spent. The book is not enough to implement six sigma yourself, for that you need to spend a lot more but it is perfect for familiarising the novice. It is also, thank god, readable. Examples abound in the book, they're all a `bit American' but don't worry about that, the substance was spot on for me.


Now what? What can I do with it?, 09 Dec 2007
This book in nothing more than a set of articles about Lean Six Sigma implementation cases. It does not tell you much on how to implement it, how to approach real life problems, what tools to use in different situations. This is only a soft read to get acquainted with "Lean Six Sigma". If you are looking for something that can really help you applying these principles on your company/work choose another title for you'll consider this one useless.

Concise but a light read, 17 Aug 2007
Not a great deal of substance but it does give a useful perspective on combining Lean process thinking with Six Sigma's emphasis on quality.

An accelerated explanation of how to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost , 15 May 2007

It seems eminently appropriate that a book which explains what Lean Six Sigma is (and isn't) should exemplify the same principles it addresses: It delights its reader with the speed by which its material is covered and with the quality of that material, it offers immediate help with mastering whatever the given process (or processes) may be, its authors work effectively with their reader to achieve the desired objectives within that reader's organization, and they prepare their reader to make better decisions, based on verifiable data.

Many people who consider purchasing it may be deterred by terms such Six Sigma and Lean which tend to be associated only with immensely large and complicated organizations such as GE and Motorola. In fact, authors Michael L. George, David Rowlands, and Bill Kastle include a number of mini-case studies throughout their narrative that suggest how decision-makers in almost any organization (regardless of size or nature) can apply Lean Six Sigma to produce more and better results, in less time, and at a lower cost if (huge "if") there are leadership at the top of the given organization, buy-in and sustained commitment at all levels and in all areas, sufficient resources, and accurate and consistent performance measurement.

For me, some of the most valuable material is provided in Chapter 8, "Making Improvements That Last." After explaining the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) process, the authors make skillful use of various "Figures" that serve two separate but related purposes: they highlight key points, and, they facilitate, indeed expedite frequent review of those points later. For example, Figure 8.1: Sample Project Charter that demonstrates how to capture the essence of a Lean Six Sigma project. It describes what the team should accomplish, who will work on the project (and in what roles), timelines and other key information. Then with Figure 8.3: Value Stream Map, the authors indicate with the example provided how the value stream map, based on an actual process, captures the main sequence of activities in the boxes across the top line. If executed with rigor and discipline, the DMAIC process offers a framework for effective collaboration that will reveal real solutions to root problems.

Those who share my high regard for this book are urged to check out James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones's Lean Thinking: Banish Waste and Create Wealth in Your Corporation and their more recent book, Lean Solutions: How Companies and Customers Can Create Value and Wealth Together. Also, Michael George's Lean Six Sigma for Service: How to Use Lean Speed and Six Sigma Quality to Improve Services and Transactions, The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook: A Quick Reference Guide to 100 Tools for Improving Quality and Speed (with John Maxey and David T. Rowlands) and Fast Innovation: Achieving Superior Differentiation, Speed to Market, and Increased Profitability (with James Works, and Kimberly Watson-Hemphill).

Packed with Knowledge !, 18 Mar 2005
Six Sigma books often couch their wisdom in acronyms or jargon, or they offer vague, unfulfilling anecdotal narratives. This book is different. As trim, focused and efficient as if a Six Sigma team had designed it, it gets the job done. Its mission is simple: explain the basic structure of Lean Six Sigma initiatives to readers who are likely to become involved in one. While select case studies are judiciously sprinkled throughout, this is a meat-and-potatoes book that tells you what you need to know in clear, straightforward prose. Although the authors - Mike George, Dave Rowlands and Bill Kastle - humbly issue the caveat that this is not intended to be a comprehensive reference, its terse yet relevant style will probably make it one of those dog-eared volumes that barely gets back to the HR bookshelf before it's checked out again. Because of its plainspoken functionality, we recommend this manual strongly to anyone whose future may involve Lean Six Sigma.

The bible of improvement., 30 May 2006
Buy this first.
A remarkably readable book.

This is the one.

Does What It Says on The Tin, 14 May 2003
I like this book a lot. Some Six Sigma books are strong on history, while others contain lots of theory. Six sigma implementation is hard on the people caught up in the change process. This concise (lean) book provides background information and questions/answers for those people. But it !

Pull your company up by its boot straps!, 16 Mar 2002
A fantastic quick overview of the concepts and practice of Six Sigma, this took me 90 minutes to read and opened up a whole new world. Operating at six sigma (a statistical term meaning 100%) will have you running your business with zero customer complaints, and continually on the watch for process and quality improvement. A rigorous team approach to identifying and rectifying both large and small causes of less-than-perfect output, the Six Sigma project will give you lots of fun and challenge you as far as you can go... Rich with practical examples of real impact in some of today's largest organizations. There is plenty of further reading to follow on from this clear and simple introduction.

Everything you need to know about starting in Six Sigma, 17 Feb 2006
Books on Six Sigma often read like ancient testaments from which you must blow the dust before you crack them open. Full of half-explained jargon and abstruse terms, they tend to shed more confusion than illumination. Eventually, you throw up your hands and decide you’ll just have to hire a consultant if you are ever to understand this stuff, even though most of those books are - surprise! - written by consultants. This offering by Michael C. Thomsett is a welcome exception. A champion financial writer, Thomsett ventures into heady consultant territory and emerges with an unnervingly comprehensible book about launching a straightforward Six Sigma quality control program. We advise you not to let this book’s brevity fool you. It will tell you everything you always wanted to know about starting in Six Sigma, but were afraid to ask a consultant. Comprehensive as well as comprehensible, it lives up to the description on its cover: "A Practical Working Guide."