Theory of Constraints, Lean and Six Sigma (TLS), Short Course Programme

Six Sigma (SS), Lean and the Theory of Constraints (TOC) embody three distinct approaches to organisational improvement that have proved their worth, but in different environments. Over the past 10 years the integration of Lean and SS has broadened these benefits and more recently TOC, in what is commonly termed TLS.

Who is the course for?

Middle to Senior Managers and CEOs who need to understand how operational improvement strategies can contribute to business performance.

Programme and Project Managers who have the responsibility to deliver operations and supply chain improvements.

What will I gain from this course?

Insight into how these three approaches conceptually and theoretically relate, enabling you to selectively use the tools and approaches in integrating strategically focused solutions encompassing on-going improvement.

Each delegate is also given the opportunity to conduct an evaluation on their own environment with the help and guidance of the tutors.

What will your organisation gain?

Capabilities in problem conceptualisation and solutions that are strategically aligned, rigorously carried out and at lower costs that are relevant to more complex environments.

To clarify the common underlying relationships between SS, Lean and TOC, the course starts by establishing how and why each approach fits its originating environment. The course then uses case examples to show how these approaches can be conceptually and practically integrated in support of a wide range of environments across the manufacturing, service and construction sectors.

Course content:

• the origins and key developments of SS, lean and TOC
• key tools and techniques
• interpreting the different approaches to the scientific method
• interpreting the associated management signalling systems (SPC, kanban and buffer management)
• underlying assumptions and boundaries
• the underlying DNA of each approach
• develop an integrated approach encompassing TLS
• conduct an evaluation of your own environment.

Course Tutors

Dr Roy Stratton
Roy has been involved with Lean and TOC developments since the 1980s covering a wide range of industrial sectors, including aerospace, food processing, apparel, retail, construction and healthcare. The associated case based research has led to the TLS focus of the Centre for Business Performance and Lean Leadership which he directs.

Dr Ehsan Sabet
For the last 12 years, Ehsan has been involved with business improvement, process and product design projects and supply chain management in manufacturing industry, including aerospace, automotive, gas turbine and steel making industries.

Rupert Matthews
Rupert received ESRC funding to complete a PhD that explored how a range of small and medium sized firms carried out process improvement. Academic understanding of improvement approaches is then complimented with consultancy work focusing on process improvement, formal training in Six Sigma and practical experience of Lean manufacturing.

In-company short courses

The courses listed within this programme can also be delivered at your organisation. For more information about in-company delivery and bespoke options for your organisation please contact the Commercial Team via email or telephone: +44 (0)115 848 8139.