Lean Six Sigma in French and Polish small and medium-sized enterprises. The pilot research results

The article presents results of the research conducted in Polish and French small and medium-sized enterprises referring to the context of the implementation and application of the concept of Lean Six Sigma. The research was conducted in the form of case studies, observations and individual interviews. The pilot studies led to the identification of the needs, expectations, concerns and experiences of these companies. At the same time possible benefits and the barriers related to the implementation of the Lean Six Sigma methodology in the SMEs were disclosed. The results of the research considered also the suggestions and expectations of the employees of the surveyed organizations. The majority of companies using elements of the LSS in both countries had difficulty with the correct use of the of Lean or Six Sigma tools. These results ultimately confirmed the demand for Lean Six Sigma methodology dedicated to SME sector. © (2015) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.